Learn more about Cleopas

Introduction to Cleopas

Cleopas is a lesser-known but intriguing figure in the New Testament, remembered primarily for his encounter with the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus. His name is of Greek origin and may be a shortened form of “Cleopatros,” meaning “glory of the father.” Although he appears only once in Scripture by name, Cleopas represents one of the earliest witnesses to the resurrection and plays a critical role in post-resurrection narratives in the Gospel of Luke.

Cleopas Pronunciation

“Cleopas” is pronounced as KLEE-oh-pas, with the emphasis on the first syllable. In Greek, it is written as Κλεόπας (Kleopas).

Cleopas in the New Testament

Cleopas is mentioned specifically in one passage in the Bible, yet this encounter is rich in theological meaning and historical implication.

• Luke 24:13-35: Cleopas is one of two disciples traveling from Jerusalem to Emmaus on the day of Jesus’ resurrection. As they walk and discuss the recent events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion, the resurrected Jesus joins them, though they do not recognize Him. During the conversation, Jesus explains how the Scriptures pointed to the Messiah’s suffering and glory. It is only when He breaks bread with them that their eyes are opened, and they recognize Him. This moment is deeply symbolic and often viewed as a model of Christian discipleship and the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

Cleopas in Biblical Context and Historical Background

The story of Cleopas in Luke 24 is packed with theological richness. Scholars have long discussed the identity of the other disciple walking with Cleopas—some speculate it could be his wife, while others propose it may be another male disciple. What is notable is that Cleopas and his companion are not among the Twelve, indicating that Jesus’ followers extended well beyond the inner circle.

The Emmaus account is also deeply significant in how it presents the resurrected Jesus as interpreting Scripture and revealing Himself through the breaking of bread. This pattern has been foundational for Christian liturgy, especially in traditions that emphasize Word and Sacrament.

Related Themes and Meanings to Cleopas

• Resurrection of Jesus: Cleopas is among the first people to whom the risen Christ reveals Himself, underscoring the reality and transformative power of the resurrection.
• Recognition of Jesus: The motif of delayed recognition followed by sudden insight (when Jesus breaks bread) highlights how spiritual understanding often requires divine revelation.
• Scriptural Fulfillment: Jesus’ interpretation of the Scriptures on the road demonstrates the continuity between the Old Testament and His life, death, and resurrection.
• Discipleship: Cleopas represents the broader community of believers—those who followed Jesus but were not among the Twelve. His story affirms that Jesus appeared to many different people after His resurrection.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Cleopas

• Some early church traditions and patristic writings suggest that Cleopas may be the same person as Clopas, mentioned in John 19:25 as the husband of “Mary the wife of Clopas.” This identification remains debated among scholars but is noteworthy in the study of early Christian history.
• The name Cleopas appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 24, but his story has inspired countless sermons and works of art, particularly around themes of pilgrimage, revelation, and Eucharist.
• Emmaus, the destination of Cleopas and his companion, has not been definitively identified. Several locations in modern Israel claim to be the biblical Emmaus, highlighting the enduring significance of this narrative.
• The story of Cleopas is often read during Eastertide in Christian liturgical calendars and is used as a key text for discussing the presence of Christ in everyday life and the Church.

Cleopas and Christian Theology

Cleopas’s encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus holds a special place in Christian theology. It affirms the bodily resurrection of Jesus, underscores the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, and provides a powerful metaphor for the Christian journey—walking with Christ, receiving understanding through Scripture, and recognizing Him in the breaking of bread. Cleopas stands as a symbol of the ordinary disciple—faithful, questioning, and ultimately transformed by the risen Lord.