What does Mark 9:5 mean?

Explanation

Mark 9:5 depicts a moment during the transfiguration of Jesus where Peter, witnessing the appearance of Moses and Elijah alongside the glorified Christ, suggests building three tabernacles (or tents) for each of them.

In this verse, Peter is responding to an extraordinary vision and his suggestion reflects a common human reaction to a supernatural and holy event: trying to preserve the moment or to honor the participants in some tangible way.

The verse underscores Peter's awe and confusion in the face of a divine mystery, as well as his desire to do something honorable yet perhaps not entirely appropriate in the situation.

The deeper meaning touches upon the Jewish tradition of commemorating significant encounters with God, such as the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths, which was a festival celebrating God's provision during the Israelites' 40 years in the wilderness.

Historical Context

During the time of Mark's writing, Jewish people celebrated several festivals that required building booths or tabernacles, like the Festival of Sukkot.

The historical context of the transfiguration is deeply rooted in the Jewish faith and its understanding of divine encounters.

The presence of Moses and Elijah, who represent the Law and the Prophets respectively, is significant because it links Jesus to the Jewish religious tradition and emphasizes his fulfillment of both the Law and prophecies.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints provide varying insights into this verse.

From a traditional Christian perspective, Peter's desire to build tabernacles is seen as a well-intentioned, yet misguided attempt to contain or honor the divine.

Theologically, this reflects humanity's inclination to respond to the divine in physical terms, whereas the true response should be spiritual in nature.

Some scholars suggest that Peter's suggestion indicates a failure to understand the greater significance of Jesus over Moses and Elijah, which is implied by the subsequent voice from the cloud, emphasizing that Jesus is the beloved Son and that he should be listened to.

Practical Applications

A modern application of this verse could be the realization that while commemorating significant spiritual events is valuable, it is more important to be attentive and responsive to what God is doing in the present.

It teaches humility and flexibility, highlighting the importance of not holding on too tightly to traditions or past experiences when confronted with the living reality of God.

Cross-References

• Matthew 17:4 - And Peter answered and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
• Luke 9:33 - And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said.
• Exodus 33:7 - And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation.

And it came to pass, that every one which sought the LORD went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp.

• Leviticus 23:42-43 - Ye shall dwell in booths seven days; all that are Israelites born shall dwell in booths: That your generations may know that I made the children of Israel to dwell in booths, when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.

Language Study

In the original Greek, "tabernacles" is translated from the word "σκηνή," which means "tent" or "booth." This term is especially significant as it relates to the Feast of Tabernacles (or "sukkot" in Hebrew), when temporary booths were constructed to celebrate and remember God's provision.

Understanding this term highlights Peter's likely association of the transfiguration event with a significant religious observance intended for remembrance and worship.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient myths and religions, commemorative practices often included building altars or monuments following divine encounters or significant events.

However, in the Jewish context, the temporary nature of the tabernacle as a dwelling or booth, rather than a permanent structure, emphasizes the transitory nature of the Israelites' travel and God's ongoing provision.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific investigation does not typically intersect with scriptural verses that describe supernatural events like the transfiguration.

These events are considered to be outside the purview of empirical analysis and are instead interpreted as spiritual or metaphysical occurrences by those of faith.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians offer various perspectives on this verse.

Some commentators emphasize the symbolic importance of the three tabernacles aligning with the three great figures of Israel's history, while others suggest Peter's response reveals a lack of understanding about Jesus' mission and the temporary nature of the vision.

Commentators like William Barclay note that Peter's instinct to build tabernacles perhaps reflects his desire to hold on to this sacred encounter with the divine.

Other experts, such as R.T.

France, point out that Peter’s proposal is indicative of confusion and an impulse to do something, even when inaction or silence would be more appropriate.

The general consensus among many theologians is that Peter's suggestion is gently rebuked by God's proclamation, redirecting attention to Jesus as His chosen Son.