Topical Encyclopedia Emmaus is a significant location mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke. It is best known as the village to which two of Jesus' disciples were traveling on the day of His resurrection when they encountered the risen Christ. The account of this event is found in Luke 24:13-35.Biblical Account The narrative begins with two disciples walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, a journey of about seven miles. As they traveled, they were discussing the recent events concerning Jesus' crucifixion and the reports of His resurrection. Luke 24:15-16 states, "As they talked and deliberated, Jesus Himself came up and walked along with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing Him." During the journey, Jesus engaged them in conversation, asking about their discussion. The disciples, unaware of His identity, expressed their disappointment and confusion over the crucifixion of Jesus, whom they had hoped would redeem Israel. They also mentioned the women's report of the empty tomb and the vision of angels declaring Jesus alive. Jesus then explained to them the Scriptures, beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, interpreting the things concerning Himself. As they approached Emmaus, the disciples urged Him to stay with them, as it was getting late. During the meal, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. At that moment, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him, but He disappeared from their sight (Luke 24:30-31). The disciples immediately returned to Jerusalem to report their encounter with the risen Christ to the eleven apostles and others gathered with them. This event emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah and the reality of Jesus' resurrection. Historical and Geographical Context The exact location of Emmaus has been a subject of debate among scholars and historians. The Gospel of Luke specifies that Emmaus was about seven miles from Jerusalem (Luke 24:13). Several sites have been proposed as the historical Emmaus, including Emmaus Nicopolis, located approximately 19 miles west of Jerusalem, and the village of Abu Ghosh, about 7 miles west of Jerusalem. Another possibility is the site of El-Qubeibeh, which aligns more closely with the distance mentioned in Luke. Theological Significance The Emmaus account holds deep theological significance for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the importance of Scripture in understanding the life and mission of Jesus. Jesus' explanation of the Scriptures to the disciples underscores the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ. Secondly, the breaking of bread and the disciples' recognition of Jesus in this act have been interpreted as a foreshadowing of the Eucharist or Communion, a central sacrament in Christian worship. This moment of recognition signifies the presence of Christ in the breaking of bread, a theme that resonates throughout Christian liturgy. Lastly, the Emmaus account illustrates the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ. The disciples' journey from despair to joy and their immediate return to Jerusalem to share the good news exemplify the mission of the Church to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus to the world. Conclusion The Emmaus narrative is a profound testament to the resurrection of Jesus and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture. It serves as a reminder of the enduring presence of Christ in the lives of believers and the call to witness to His resurrection. Smith's Bible Dictionary Emmaus or Emmaus(warm baths), the village to which the two disciples were going when our Lord appeared to them on the way, on the day of his resurrection. (Luke 24:13) Luke makes its distance from Jerusalem sixty stadia (Authorized Version "threescore furlongs"), or about 7 1/2 miles; and Josephus mentions "a village called Emmaus" at the same distance. The site of Emmaus remains yet to be identified. Greek 1695. Emmaous -- Emmaus, a place 60 stadia (7.5 miles) west of Jer ... ... 1694, 1695. Emmaous. 1696 . Emmaus, a place 60 stadia (7.5 miles) west of Jer. ... yem Definition Emmaus, a place 60 stadia (7.5 miles) west of Jer. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1695.htm - 6k 2810. Kleopas -- Cleopas, a Christian Library The Meal at Emmaus Easter the Walk to Emmaus. Emmaus. Kiriath-Jearim. The Walk to Emmaus The Walk to Emmaus. Ch. 24:13-35 Eight Easter Lessons Learned at Emmaus. Luke xxiv. 13-35. The Appearance at Emmaus. Christ Appears to the Women at the Tomb; to Mary; to the Two ... On the Third Day He Rose Again from the Dead; He Ascended into ... 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