Significance of Moses and Elijah at Transfiguration of Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Second Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:28b-36*

*First Reading :Gn 15:5-12, 17-18*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14*

*Second Reading : Phil 3:17-4:1 or 3:20-4:1*

*Significance of Moses and Elijah at Transfiguration of Jesus*

*1) Moses, Elijah, and Mountaintop Encounters with God*

Moses encountered God on Mount Sinai (Exodus 19, 24, 33-34), where he received the Law and saw God's glory.

Elijah encountered God on Mount Horeb (Sinai) (1 Kings 19), where he heard God in a gentle whisper after the wind, earthquake, and fire.

*2) The Transfiguration Happens on a Mountain*

Jesus is transfigured on a high mountain (traditionally identified as Mount Tabor or Mount Hermon).

Just as Moses and Elijah experienced divine revelation on mountains, the disciples (Peter, James, and John) now witness Jesus’ divine glory revealed on a mountain.

*3) Representing the Law and the Prophets*

Moses symbolizes the Law (Torah), as he received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.

Elijah represents the Prophets, being one of the most prominent prophetic figures in Israel's history.

Together, they affirm Jesus as the fulfillment of both the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17).

*4) Confirming Jesus’ Identity and Mission*

Their appearance validates Jesus as the Messiah.

They discuss Jesus' coming exodus (departure, death, and resurrection) (Luke 9:31), showing that His suffering is part of God’s plan.

*5) Foreshadowing the Resurrection and the Second Coming*

Moses had died, while Elijah was taken to heaven without dying (2 Kings 2:11).

Their presence signifies Jesus’ power over both life and death, pointing to His resurrection.

Elijah’s presence aligns with the Jewish expectation that Elijah would return before the Messiah’s full revelation (Malachi 4:5).

*6) Jesus is Greater Than Moses and Elijah*

Moses and Elijah had partial revelations of God on mountains.

But on mount Tabor Jesus fully reveals God’s glory (John 1:14).

This shows that Jesus is not just a servant or prophet, but He is the Son of God.

*7) Final Thought*

The Transfiguration affirms Jesus as the divine Son of God, the fulfillment of God’s promises, and the one to whom all must listen.

Moses and Elijah appear not as equals but as witnesses, confirming that in Jesus, the entire salvation history finds its completion.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*