Luke 24:13

¶ And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem [about] threescore furlongs.

And {G2532}, behold {G2400}, two {G1417} of {G1537} them {G846} went {G2258}{G4198} that {G1722} same {G846} day {G2250} to {G1519} a village {G2968} called {G3739}{G3686} Emmaus {G1695}, which was {G568} from {G575} Jerusalem {G2419} about threescore {G1835} furlongs {G4712}.

That same day, two of them were going toward a village about seven miles from Yerushalayim called Amma’us,

That same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem.

And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was threescore furlongs from Jerusalem.

Commentary

Luke 24:13 introduces one of the most poignant and instructive narratives in the New Testament: the journey of two disciples to Emmaus following the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This verse sets the scene for a miraculous encounter that transforms despair into profound understanding and fervent hope.

Historical and Cultural Context

The events described in this verse take place on the very day of Jesus' resurrection, referred to as "that same day." Jerusalem, the city where Jesus had been crucified and buried, was still abuzz with the aftermath of the Passover week and the perplexing reports of the empty tomb. The "two of them" are disciples, though not part of the inner circle of the twelve apostles. We learn later that one of them is named Cleopas. They are traveling to a village called Emmaus, a place not definitively identified by archaeologists today but significant for this narrative. Their journey away from Jerusalem suggests a sense of confusion, disappointment, or even despair, as their hopes regarding Jesus as the Messiah seemed to have been dashed by His death.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Disillusionment and Doubt: The disciples' departure from Jerusalem signifies their struggle to comprehend the recent events, especially the reports of the resurrection. They are physically moving away from the center of God's unfolding plan, reflecting their spiritual disorientation.
  • Divine Initiative: Even as these disciples walk away in confusion, Jesus actively pursues and joins them on their journey. This highlights God's compassionate initiative to meet individuals in their moments of doubt and uncertainty, providing comfort and clarity.
  • The Journey of Understanding: The physical journey to Emmaus serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual journey of faith. It's a process where initial blindness and sorrow are gradually replaced by revelation and joy, culminating in the recognition of the resurrected Lord.

Linguistic Insights

The verse specifies the distance to Emmaus as "threescore furlongs" from Jerusalem. A furlong was an ancient unit of distance, approximately 1/8 of a Roman mile. Therefore, "threescore furlongs" translates to 60 furlongs, which is about 7.5 miles (or roughly 11-12 kilometers). This was a considerable walking distance, allowing ample time for the ensuing conversation and the unfolding of Jesus' teaching as they traveled together.

Practical Application

The Emmaus road narrative resonates deeply with believers today. It reminds us that even when we feel lost, confused, or disillusioned, Jesus is present and walks alongside us. Our personal journeys, filled with questions and doubts, are opportunities for divine revelation through His Word and presence. Just as Jesus opened the Scriptures to the disciples on the road, He continues to illuminate His truth for us, transforming our understanding and rekindling our hope, especially when we feel like walking away from our faith or from difficult circumstances.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Luke 24:18

    And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?

  • Mark 16:12

    After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.

  • Mark 16:13

    And they went and told [it] unto the residue: neither believed they them.
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