LUKE 9:28–36
THE TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS
Text – Luke 9:28–36
28 About eight days after he said this, he took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.
29 While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.
30 And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
31 who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
32 Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
33 As they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” But he did not know what he was saying.
34 While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
35 Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
36 After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.
Historical and Jewish Context
Mountaintops were traditionally places of divine revelation in Jewish history—Sinai for Moses, Carmel for Elijah. Jesus brings His three closest disciples, forming an inner circle of witnesses. The brilliant white appearance reflects divine glory, recalling Daniel’s visions and the radiance of Moses’ face after encountering God. Moses and Elijah represent the Law and the Prophets, the entire Old Testament bearing witness to Jesus. Their conversation about His “exodus” connects the Passion with Israel’s liberation story. The overshadowing cloud evokes the Shekinah—the visible presence of God that filled the tabernacle.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Transfiguration is a revelation of Christ’s divine identity and a preview of His resurrection glory. It strengthens the disciples before they face the scandal of the cross. Moses and Elijah testify that Jesus fulfills both the Law and the Prophets. The Father’s voice confirms Jesus as the “chosen Son,” echoing His baptism and grounding the Church’s Christology. The command “listen to him” highlights Jesus as the definitive revelation of God, surpassing all previous mediators. This mystery is central to Catholic teaching on the Paschal Mystery and Christ’s divinity.
Parallels in Scripture
Ex 24:15–18 – Moses on Sinai enveloped in cloud and glory.
1 Kgs 19:11–13 – Elijah encounters God on the mountain.
Dn 7:9–14 – Vision of heavenly glory.
Lk 24:26 – The Messiah must suffer before entering glory.
2 Pt 1:16–18 – Peter recalls the Transfiguration as eyewitness testimony.
Key Terms
Transfiguration – Manifestation of Christ’s divine glory.
Exodus – Jesus’ saving departure through death and resurrection.
Glory – Visible radiance of God’s presence.
Listen to him – Divine mandate to obey Christ as final revelation.
Cloud – Symbol of God’s guiding and overshadowing presence.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Celebrated as the Feast of the Transfiguration (August 6), this passage is proclaimed during Lent to prepare believers for the cross by revealing Christ’s glory. It is also used in Sunday liturgies to emphasize Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets. The mystery strengthens faith in the resurrection and supports catechesis on Jesus’ divine nature.
Conclusion
The Transfiguration unveils Jesus’ true identity: the Father’s beloved Son clothed in divine glory. Moses and Elijah testify that His Passion is part of God’s saving plan. The disciples glimpse the glory that awaits all who follow Christ faithfully.
Reflection
Do I listen to Jesus with a heart open to transformation? The Transfiguration reminds me that prayer reveals Christ’s glory and prepares me for trials. God invites me to trust that every cross leads to resurrection light.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, reveal Your glory in my life and strengthen me to follow You through every trial. Help me to listen to Your voice, trust Your plan, and walk in the hope of Your resurrection. Amen.