The Transfiguration is an event described in the New Testament where Jesus Christ is transfigured and becomes radiant in glory upon a mountain. Jesus’ face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. This event revealed Jesus’ divine nature to his closest disciples, Peter, James, and John, and served as a glimpse of Jesus’ heavenly glory. It occurred approximately in 29 AD, during Jesus’ earthly ministry.
Background to the Transfiguration
Before the Transfiguration, Jesus began his public ministry, preaching, teaching, and performing miracles. He chose twelve disciples, including Peter, James, and John, who became his closest followers. Jesus revealed his divine nature to these three disciples on multiple occasions. In the time leading up to the Transfiguration, Jesus had predicted his own suffering, death, and resurrection.
Biblical Record
Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, traditionally identified as Mount Tabor, though its exact location remains uncertain. There, Jesus was transfigured before them, and his appearance changed dramatically. Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, appeared with Jesus and conversed with him.
A bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; Listen to him!” (Matthew 17:5). The disciples fell facedown in fear, but Jesus touched them, telling them not to be afraid. When they looked up, they saw only Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8).
The Transfiguration is also described in Mark 9:2-8 and Luke 9:28-36. The event is briefly mentioned in 2 Peter 1:16-18, where Peter recalls the event as a testament to Jesus’ divinity.