- Mary and Joseph, the parents of Jesus, did not have last names the way modern people do. Last names, or surnames, were not commonly used in ancient Jewish culture during the time they lived. Instead, people were often identified by other methods, such as:
1. By Parentage
Individuals were frequently referred to as “son of” or “daughter of” their father.
For example, Joseph might have been referred to as Joseph, son of Jacob (as noted in Matthew 1:16).
2. By Place of Origin
People were also identified by their hometown or region.
For example, Joseph could have been referred to as Joseph of Nazareth, since he lived there (Luke 2:4).
Mary might similarly have been called Mary of Nazareth.
3. By Occupation or Traits
Sometimes, individuals were identified by their trade or a characteristic.
Joseph was a carpenter (Matthew 13:55), so he might have been informally known as Joseph the carpenter.
Why Didn’t They Have Last Names?
The concept of last names or family surnames developed much later in history, around the Middle Ages in Europe, primarily for administrative purposes like taxation or distinguishing individuals in larger populations.
In ancient Israel, lineage and community ties were more important, and people were identified through familial and geographical connections.