Joseph is the youngest of the sons of Lehi and Sariah, having been born in the wilderness like his older brother Jacob (see 1 Nephi 18:7). The experiences of his family are defined by severe contrasts: on the one hand, the honorable example of righteous parents and the nobility of brothers Nephi, Sam, and Jacob, and on the other hand, the rebellious and cruel behavior of Laman and Lemuel. Joseph is therefore exposed to constant heartache (see 1 Nephi 18:18–19).
As if to add comforting balance to a life of burden, Lehi gives Joseph a father’s blessing in which the promises of the ancient patriarch, Joseph of Egypt, as preserved on the brass plates of Laban, are referenced to give hope and encouragement to the boy: Lehi promises young Joseph that he will participate in the Lord’s design, as foretold by Joseph of old, to raise up a righteous branch of Israel that will preserve the word of God, that it might come forth in the latter days as a further confirmation of the divine mission of the Redeemer.
Joseph remembers the words of Lehi. He is to accompany Nephi and his righteous circle as they separate themselves from the wickedness of Laman and Lemuel (see 2 Nephi 5:6) and establishes a secure place where they can “live after the manner of happiness” (2 Nephi 5:27). Jacob and Joseph are both later consecrated as priests and teachers by the hand of Nephi (see Jacob 1:18) and they devote their energies and services to building up the kingdom of God all their days.