Josif
Josif Origin and Meaning
Josif is a masculine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Eastern European countries like Serbia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Russia. It is a variant of Joseph, which comes from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'he will add' or 'God will increase.' Josif carries the same biblical significance as Joseph, referring to the son of Jacob in the Old Testament and the husband of Mary in the New Testament. The name has been used for centuries throughout Eastern Orthodox Christian communities, often given to honor Saint Joseph. While less familiar in Western countries, Josif maintains steady usage in Eastern Europe, appreciated for its strong historical roots and cultural significance while offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Joseph.