So interpreted in Acts 4:36; his given name was Joseph.
About
A Levite from Cyprus originally named Joseph, nicknamed 'Barnabas' meaning 'son of encouragement' by the apostles. He sold a field and gave the proceeds to the apostles. He vouched for Paul to a suspicious Jerusalem church. He accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey through Cyprus and Galatia. He later separated from Paul over the question of taking John Mark on the second journey.
Relationships
CompanionPaulCompanion on first missionary journey
RelativeMarkKinsman, called his cousin or his sister's son, whom he took to Cyprus
Key Scripture AppearancesKJV
Acts 4:36
And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,Acts 4:36, KJV
Acts 9:27
But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.Acts 9:27, KJV
Acts 11:22
Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.Acts 11:22, KJV
Acts 13:2
As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.Acts 13:2, KJV
Acts 15:39
And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;Acts 15:39, KJV
See how Barnabas connects to every other figure in Scripture.