Topical Bible: Joseph: A Priest

◄ Joseph: A Priest ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Joseph, a significant figure in the biblical narrative, is primarily known as the son of Jacob and Rachel, and the eleventh of Jacob's twelve sons. While Joseph is not explicitly referred to as a "priest" in the traditional sense, his life and actions exhibit characteristics and roles that align with priestly functions, particularly in his capacity as a leader and mediator.

Background and Early Life

Joseph's account is predominantly found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 37-50. He was favored by his father Jacob, which incited jealousy among his brothers. This favoritism was symbolized by the "richly ornamented robe" (Genesis 37:3) given to him by Jacob. Joseph's early life was marked by dreams that foretold his future rise to prominence, which further fueled his brothers' envy.

Role in Egypt

Joseph's journey to Egypt began when his brothers sold him into slavery. Despite his circumstances, Joseph rose to prominence due to his ability to interpret dreams, a gift attributed to God. In Genesis 41, Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. His wisdom and discernment led Pharaoh to appoint him as the second-in-command over Egypt, effectively making him a steward of the land.

Priestly Functions

While Joseph was not a priest in the Levitical sense, his role in Egypt bore similarities to priestly duties:

1. Mediator and Intercessor: Joseph acted as a mediator between God and the people of Egypt. His interpretation of dreams and subsequent management of resources during the famine can be seen as an intercessory role, providing for the physical and spiritual needs of the people.

2. Provider and Protector: Joseph's administration during the famine ensured the survival of Egypt and surrounding nations. His actions reflect a priestly concern for the welfare of others, akin to the priestly duty of caring for the community.

3. Reconciliation: Joseph's eventual reconciliation with his brothers (Genesis 45) highlights his role in restoring broken relationships, a key aspect of priestly ministry. He forgave his brothers, attributing their actions to God's providential plan: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20).

4. Spiritual Leadership: Joseph's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and his reliance on divine guidance demonstrate his spiritual leadership. His faithfulness to God amidst trials exemplifies a life dedicated to serving God's purposes.

Legacy

Joseph's legacy as a leader and a figure of faith is profound. His life exemplifies the virtues of integrity, forgiveness, and trust in God's plan. Although not a priest by title, Joseph's actions and character align with the spiritual and communal responsibilities often associated with priesthood. His account serves as a testament to God's providence and the transformative power of faith and forgiveness.

Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 12:14
Of Melicu, Jonathan; of Shebaniah, Joseph;
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Marriage of the Blessed virgin to Joseph
... another master. On the command of the high priest, Joseph now came, dressed
in his best, to the Temple at Jerusalem. He, too, had ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/vii marriage of the blessed.htm

If You have Enjoyed this Book, Consider Making Your Next Selection ...
... The Priest, the Man of God. St. Joseph Cafasso. . . . . ... St. Joseph
Cafasso"Priest of the Gallows. St. John Bosco. . . . . ...
/.../francis/treatise on the love of god/if you have enjoyed this.htm

Now it came to Pass, when She was Fourteen Years Old...
... thy rod; for we are waiting for thee. And Joseph came up trembling, because
the high priest had called him with a very loud voice. ...
/.../unknown/the gospel of pseudo-matthew/chapter 8 now it came.htm

Joseph, the Prime Minister
... And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphnath-paaneah; and he gave him to wife
Asenath the daughter of Poti-pherah priest of On. And ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/joseph the prime minister.htm

How Herod Upon his Making Aristobulus High Priest Took Care that ...
... High Priest Took Care That He Should Be Murdered In A Little Time; And What Apology
He Made To Antony About Aristobulus; As Also Concerning Joseph And Mariamne ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 3 how herod upon.htm

Theodore of the Studium.
... ever existed in the world, Theodore exhibited more doubtful conduct in the schism
which regarded the readmission to communion of Joseph, the priest who had ...
/.../neale/hymns of the eastern church/theodore of the studium.htm

Annunciation to Joseph of the Birth of Jesus.
... As Joseph appears to have acted at once upon the angel's instruction, the marriage ...
of Israel for the conquest of Canaan, the other was high priest of Israel ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/ix annunciation to joseph of.htm

Now There was among the Rest Joseph, of the House and Family of ...
... Wherefore, when nothing in conformity with the divine voice appeared, the high priest
thought it necessary to consult God a ... Joseph, therefore, was found out. ...
/.../unknown/the gospel of the nativity of mary/chapter 8 now there was.htm

The visitation
... attached to his bare feet. Today he also showed Joseph his priest's mantle,
which was very beautiful. It was an ample, heavy mantle ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ix the visitation.htm

Whether Christ Took Flesh of the Seed of David?
... but retaining her virginity." For as Jerome says on Mat.1:18: "Joseph and Mary ... to
the priestly race, so that Christ, who is both king and priest, should be ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether christ took flesh of.htm