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March 19th marks a special day for many, known as St Joseph’s Day, which coincides with Father’s Day in certain regions. But who exactly was St Joseph, and what role did he play in the biblical narrative? Here’s a closer look at his life and legacy.
Joseph: The Earthly Father of Jesus
Joseph was the husband of Mary and served as the earthly guardian of Jesus. Although the Bible doesn’t spotlight him as extensively as Mary, his presence was crucial in Jesus’s early life. He appears in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, with a fleeting mention in John, which provides us with a glimpse into his life.
Mary’s Betrothed
Originating from Bethlehem, but residing in Nazareth, Joseph was engaged to Mary, a Jewish girl (Luke 2:4; Matthew 1:18; Luke 1:27). Upon discovering Mary’s pregnancy, Joseph initially considered a quiet divorce to avoid public scandal due to potential accusations of adultery (Matthew 1:19; John 8:4-5). However, a divine dream convinced him to stay with Mary. Together, they journeyed to Bethlehem for the census, where Jesus was born (Matthew 1:25; Luke 2:6-7).
Descendant of Royalty
Joseph’s lineage is traced back to King David, as per Matthew’s genealogy (Matthew 1:1-16), suggesting he descended from David through Solomon. This connection links Joseph to the prophecies about the Messiah’s descent from David, marking him as a potential heir to David’s throne, though not connected to the ruling Herodian or Hasmonean lines.
Jewish Traditions
As devout Jews, Joseph and Mary adhered to Mosaic laws, including dedicating their firstborn to God (Luke 2:23). They visited the Temple in Jerusalem with Jesus, offering two birds as a sacrifice, indicative of their modest means (Luke 2:22; Leviticus 12:6-9). This visit preceded the Magi’s gifts, which might have later supported their finances. At the Temple, Simeon and Anna recognized Jesus as the Messiah (Luke 2:25-38).
Flight to Egypt
After the Magi’s visit, King Herod’s paranoia led him to perceive Jesus as a threat (Matthew 2:2). Warned by an angel, Joseph fled to Egypt with his family, a journey possibly funded by the Magi’s gifts. Even after Herod’s death, Joseph’s caution persisted due to Herod’s successor, so they settled in Nazareth (Matthew 2:22).
Family Life
Joseph and Mary had several children after Jesus, including four sons and at least two daughters (Matthew 13:54-56). While some speculate these were Joseph’s children from a previous marriage, the New Testament doesn’t confirm this, potentially complicating the Davidic lineage if true.
Protector and Provider
Joseph’s commitment to Mary and Jesus showcases his role as a protector and provider. His decision to remain with Mary, guide the family during exile, and raise Jesus as a carpenter reflects his faith and dedication. Known as a righteous man (Matthew 1:19), Joseph likely introduced Jesus to carpentry (Mark 6:3).
Joseph’s Disappearance
Joseph’s presence fades from the biblical narrative with no mention of him at Jesus’s crucifixion, suggesting he had passed away by then. Tradition holds that he died in the company of Mary and Jesus, but this is unrecorded. Jesus’s appeal to John to care for Mary further implies Joseph’s absence (John 19:26-27).
Legacy and Patronage
While no grave or shrine exists for St Joseph, Nazareth houses a basilica believed to be over his carpentry workshop. Honored as the patron saint of carpenters, workers, and immigrants, his feast day on March 19th was established by Pope Sixtus IV in 1479. In several Catholic countries, this day also celebrates fatherhood, continuing the tradition of St Joseph as a symbol of paternal care and guidance.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
