The Transfiguration

Matthew 17:1–8

“Six days later Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light. Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus. Peter exclaimed, “Lord, it’s wonderful for us to be here! If you want, I’ll make three shelters as shrines—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.” The disciples were terrified and fell face down on the ground. Then Jesus came over and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” And when they looked up, Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus.”

NLT

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Spiritual peak experiences illuminate earthly duty rather than replacing it.


Jesus brings Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where his countenance shines like the sun and his clothing becomes radiant white. The prophets Moses and Elijah appear in communion with him, followed by a radiant cloud and a divine voice confirming his sonship, leaving the disciples alone with Jesus.

Light

Direct encounter with divine illumination and unclouded transcendent reality.

Shadow

Attempting to freeze or institutionalize visionary revelation into rigid structures rather than integrating it.

Sources and verification1 source

Primary source