Κλωπᾶς (Klōpas)
Klōpas
Clopas
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Klōpas appears only once in the New Testament, identifying a man who stood near the cross at Golgotha (John 19:25). He is described as the husband of Mary, who is distinguished from Jesus’ mother by being called his sister. This brief mention places him within the small group of followers who remained faithful to Jesus during his crucifixion.
Lexical sources identify Klōpas as a name of Aramaic origin, corresponding to the Hebrew Cleophas (Strong’s G256). The meaning is often rendered as "my exchanges" or "my purchase," reflecting its Semitic roots. While the Greek text uses this specific form, it likely represents a transliteration of the original Aramaic name spoken in first-century Judea.
Because the Gospel of John lists him alongside Jesus’ mother and Mary Magdalene, early Christian tradition frequently identified Klōpas as the father of James the Less. This connection helps readers understand the family relationships surrounding the crucifixion narrative, linking the apostolic circle to those who witnessed the event from a close distance.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Clopas appears in a single verse, yet it anchors us to a moment of profound loyalty. Standing near the cross at Golgotha, he is identified as the husband of Mary, who remained with Jesus’ mother and Mary Magdalene when many others had fled. This brief mention highlights that faithfulness often looks like quiet presence rather than loud proclamation.
For your life, this word reminds us that God sees those who stay close during difficult times. Clopas represents the ordinary believer who did not turn away when things grew dark. His story encourages you to remain steadfast in your relationships and your trust in Christ, even when the world around you seems to crumble.
Though we know little about him, his presence at the foot of the cross shows that God values those who witness with love. It is a comfort to know that our faithful steps are recorded and remembered by Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of Clopas1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Κλωπᾶ1×
Key Verses
-
John 19:25
But standing by Jesus’ cross were his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
This verse identifies Clopas as the husband of Mary, placing him among the few who remained loyal to Jesus at the crucifixion.