What does Matthew 17:2 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 17:2 describes a supernatural event known as the Transfiguration of Jesus, which occurs in the New Testament.

In this passage, Jesus takes three of His disciples, Peter, James, and John, to a high mountain.

There, Jesus undergoes a dramatic change in appearance ("transfigured") before them.

His face shines like the sun, and his clothes become as white as light.

The literal interpretation is that Jesus physically changed form in the presence of his disciples, revealing divine glory that radiates with intense light.

The deeper meaning signifies the revelation of Jesus' divine nature and His close relationship with God the Father, as well as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the coming of the Messiah.

Historical Context

The Transfiguration took place in the context of first-century Judaism, where mountains were often considered places of divine revelation. This is why many significant biblical events occur on mountains, such as the giving of the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.

Jewish traditions also held that righteous individuals could sometimes be engulfed in divine light.

The account of the Transfiguration is found in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), each providing a similar narrative. The event likely occurred in the region of Galilee, possibly on Mount Tabor, though some traditions suggest Mount Hermon as the location.

Theological Insights

Various theological insights have been drawn from this passage.

From a Trinitarian Christian perspective, it signifies the manifestation of the Trinity: the Son (Jesus transfigured), the Voice of the Father affirming Jesus' sonship, and the Holy Spirit represented by the dazzling light.

In Eastern Orthodoxy, the Transfiguration is seen as a prefiguration of the Resurrection and the deification of man.

Catholic interpretations often emphasize the confirmation of Jesus' mission and His fulfillment of the Old Testament.

Protestant theologians might focus on the supremacy of Jesus over the Law and the prophets, as represented by the figures of Moses and Elijah who appear during the Transfiguration.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire believers to seek a deeper understanding and relationship with Jesus, recognizing Him as divine and following His teachings. It may also encourage Christians to see their trials and challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth and transformation.

Furthermore, the transformation of Jesus can symbolize hope for personal transformation through faith and the pursuit of holiness.

Cross-References

• Matthew 17:5: "While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him."
• Mark 9:2-3: "And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them.

And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them."

• Luke 9:29: "And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering."
• 2 Peter 1:16-18: "For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty."

Language Study

The key word "transfigured" in Greek is "μετεμορφώθη" (metemorphōthē), derived from "μεταμορφόω" (metamorphoō), which means to change form or to transform.

It is the same root from which we get the word "metamorphosis." The Greek for "his face did shine as the sun" involves "ἔλαμψεν" (elampsen), suggesting a bright and radiant shining.

The term used for "raiment" is "ἱμάτιον" (himation), referring specifically to an outer garment or cloak, which became "white as the light" denoting purity and divine radiance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, many cultures had stories of gods or heroes who shone with divine light, indicating their other-worldly nature.

For example, in Greek mythology, the god Zeus is described as flashing bolts of lightning, signifying his divine power.

Similarly, in the Eastern religious tradition of Hinduism, deities and enlightened beings are often depicted with halos or aura of light.

These cultural comparisons highlight how the language of divine light is a universal symbol for divinity and spiritual revelation.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the description of Jesus' face shining as the sun and clothing as bright as light may be seen as symbolic since no human can physically emit light like the sun without causing harm to observers.

Some interpreters may look for natural explanations, such as a rare atmospheric phenomenon.

However, most scholars and theologians agree that this event is meant to be understood as a divine, miraculous occurrence that transcends natural explanation.

Commentaries

Different Bible commentaries offer varying perspectives on this verse.

Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes the majesty and glory of Christ revealed to the disciples, acknowledging that this vision is a glimpse of His divine nature.

The "Pulpit Commentary" regards this event as a strengthening experience for the disciples, preparing them for the upcoming trials of Jesus' passion and crucifixion.

Contemporary commentaries often discuss the role of the Transfiguration in revealing Christ's pre-resurrection glory and laying a foundation for understanding His death and resurrection.

Many also note that this experience was meant to establish Jesus' identity as the Son of God and reinforce the disciples' faith in Him as the Messiah.