Cleopas

The name Cleopas has rich etymological and historical significance. Derived from the Greek name 'Κλεόπας' (Kleopas), it is believed to be a shortened form of 'Cleopatros,' which means 'glory of the father' or 'renowned father.' This name is closely tied to the Greek linguistic tradition, yet its usage in the New Testament suggests its integration into the cultural milieu of early Christianity. Some scholars have linked Cleopas to the Aramaic name 'Qlopha' (קלופא), further underscoring its Semitic roots. Additionally, there is a longstanding tradition within Catholic and Eastern Orthodox circles identifying Cleopas with Clopas, a figure mentioned in John 19:25, showing how this name connects to broader familial and spiritual lineages in biblical history.

Cleopas holds a prominent place in Christian tradition due to his direct encounter with the resurrected Jesus on the road to Emmaus, as described in Luke 24:13-31. This interaction underscores his spiritual significance and proximity to pivotal events in the New Testament. Scoring an impressive 94.1/100 on the Jesus Circle Score, Cleopas is firmly associated with Jesus's ministry and resurrection. His Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 further highlights his closeness to divine moments and teachings within the scripture.

The Emmaus narrative, in which Cleopas features, is not merely a recounting of a miraculous appearance but also a theological lesson on faith, recognition, and the fulfillment of scripture. This makes Cleopas a symbol of spiritual awakening and the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. His story has inspired countless theological reflections and sermons, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Jesus in everyday encounters.

Cleopas appears in the Gospel of Luke (24:13-31) as one of two disciples walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus on the day of Jesus's resurrection. While his companion remains unnamed, Cleopas is specifically identified in verse 18. This encounter occurs three days after the crucifixion, during a time of confusion and disbelief among Jesus’s followers. As Cleopas and his companion discuss recent events, Jesus joins them, though they fail to recognize Him at first. Their eyes are 'kept from recognizing Him' until He breaks bread with them, at which point they realize they have been in the presence of the resurrected Christ.

This narrative is significant for several reasons. It highlights the fulfillment of scripture, as Jesus explains the Messianic prophecies to the two disciples. It also emphasizes the Eucharistic theme, with Jesus revealing Himself in the breaking of bread, a moment that has profound liturgical and theological implications. Cleopas’s role in this story makes him a key witness to the resurrection and a participant in one of the most intimate post-resurrection appearances of Christ.

The account of Cleopas in Luke is also echoed briefly in Mark 16:12-13, where the appearance to two disciples on the road is mentioned. This reinforces the importance of the Emmaus encounter in the broader resurrection narrative.