[MYM] 32.0 The Transfiguration of Yeshua

The Transfiguration occurs shortly after a crucial turning point in Yeshua’s ministry. In the preceding passages (Matthew 16; Mark 8; Luke 9), Peter had made his bold confession that Yeshua is “the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” Immediately after, Yeshua began to reveal that He must suffer, be killed, and rise on the third day — a revelation that deeply confused and troubled His disciples.

To strengthen their faith and confirm His divine identity before the coming trials, Yeshua took Peter, James, and John — His closest disciples — to a high mountain, traditionally believed to be Mount Tabor or possibly Mount Hermon. This event takes place about a week after His prophecy about His kingdom’s coming power (Matthew 16:28), which is fulfilled in this vision of divine glory.

Theologically, the Transfiguration bridges Yeshua’s ministry of teaching and healing with His coming passion and resurrection. It reveals His heavenly nature and connects Him with the Law and the Prophets, represented by Moses and Elijah.

As Yeshua prayed on the mountain (Luke emphasizes His prayer), His appearance changed dramatically. His face shone like the sun, and His garments became dazzling white, surpassing any earthly brightness (Matthew 17:2; Mark 9:3). This radiant transformation unveiled His divine glory, usually hidden beneath His human form.

Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began speaking with Yeshua about His forthcoming “departure” (Greek: exodos) — referring to His death, resurrection, and ascension (Luke 9:31). Moses represents the Law, and Elijah represents the Prophets, symbolizing the fulfillment of all Scripture in the Messiah. Their conversation confirmed that Yeshua’s path of suffering was divinely ordained.

Peter, overwhelmed by the vision, impulsively suggested building three shelters — one for Yeshua, one for Moses, and one for Elijah — reflecting his desire to prolong this glorious moment. But as he spoke, a bright cloud — symbolizing God’s presence — overshadowed them, and a voice from heaven declared:
“This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!” (Matthew 17:5).

The disciples fell face down in fear, but Yeshua touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” When they looked up, Moses and Elijah were gone — only Yeshua remained, emphasizing that He alone is the complete revelation of God’s will.

As they descended the mountain, Yeshua instructed the three disciples not to tell anyone about what they had seen until after His resurrection (Matthew 17:9). The vision was meant to strengthen their faith privately, preparing them for the suffering that lay ahead. The disciples questioned what “rising from the dead” meant and asked about the prophecy concerning Elijah’s coming. Yeshua explained that Elijah had already come in the person of John the Baptist, who prepared the way but was rejected and killed — a foreshadowing of His own suffering.

The Transfiguration served as a divine confirmation of Yeshua’s Sonship and Messianic authority, revealing His glory as the eternal Word of God. It also reassured the disciples that His forthcoming suffering was not defeat but the path to divine victory.

Through this event, Yeshua stood revealed as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, the beloved Son of the Father, and the source of eternal light. The mountain of transfiguration thus pointed to another mountain — Calvary — where His true glory would be unveiled through sacrificial love and resurrection power.