Cleopas
Overview
- Testament: New
- Role: Disciple of Jesus; one of the two on the Emmaus Road
- Key Passages: Luke 24:13–35
- Associated Book: Luke
Summary
Cleopas is one of the two disciples walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus on the day of the Resurrection, joined by the risen Jesus whom they do not recognize. He is the only one named (the other is anonymous — some traditions identify him as Luke himself). Cleopas rehearses the events of the Passion to the stranger: Jesus of Nazareth, “a prophet mighty in deed and word,” was crucified; “we had hoped that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel.” The risen Jesus rebukes their slowness of heart and opens the Scriptures to them from Moses through all the prophets. They recognize him in the breaking of bread — and he vanishes from their sight.
Cleopas may be identified with Clopas, the husband of one of the Marys at the cross (John 19:25), which would make him a close relative of Jesus.
Key Moments
| Event | Reference | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Emmaus Road | Luke 24:13–35 | Hearts burning; recognized in bread-breaking; first Resurrection witness outside Jerusalem |
Cross-References
- Emmaus — the village destination of the two disciples
- Resurrection — the event Cleopas is processing on the road
- Luke — the Gospel that records this account in detail