Bible Figure
Cleopas
biblical character (Gospel of Luke); went to Emmaus with Peter
Cleopas was one of the two disciples who encountered the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus on the day of the resurrection. He and his companion initially failed to recognize Jesus, but came to understand the Scriptures as He explained how the Messiah's suffering and glory fit God's plan.
Biography
Luke 24 names Cleopas as one of two disciples traveling from Jerusalem to Emmaus after reports of the empty tomb. They were discussing the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion when the risen Jesus joined them, though they were prevented from recognizing Him. Cleopas expressed surprise that the stranger seemed unaware of what had happened in Jerusalem and summarized their disappointed hopes that Jesus of Nazareth had been the one to redeem Israel. He also recounted the women's report of the empty tomb. Jesus then rebuked their slowness to believe all that the prophets had spoken and interpreted the Scriptures concerning the Messiah's suffering and glory. At Emmaus they urged Him to stay. Their eyes were opened as He broke bread, and He vanished from their sight. They immediately returned to Jerusalem and reported the encounter to the gathered disciples. Cleopas should not automatically be identified with Clopas of John 19:25; the similarity of names has prompted tradition, but Scripture does not explicitly equate them.
Biblical Significance
Cleopas' story is one of Luke's richest resurrection narratives. It demonstrates that the crucifixion was not the defeat of messianic hope but part of the scriptural plan, and it models how the risen Christ becomes understood through Scripture and personal encounter.