What does Matthew 17:5 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 17:5 describes a significant episode in the New Testament known as the Transfiguration of Jesus.

During this event, Jesus takes three of his disciples, Peter, James, and John, to a high mountain where he undergoes a mystical transformation.

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

This verse specifically focuses on the climax of the Transfiguration, where a bright cloud envelopes them, and God’s voice is heard confirming Jesus's divine sonship and instructing the disciples to listen to him.

The appearance of the bright cloud and the voice from heaven serve to authenticate Jesus' identity as the Son of God, and the admonition to "hear ye him" underscores the importance of Jesus' teachings and instructions for his followers.

Historical Context

The Transfiguration is believed to have occurred on Mount Tabor in Israel, though some suggest that it might have been Mount Hermon.

This event takes place relatively late in Jesus' ministry, after Peter's confession of Jesus as the Messiah but before the passion narrative begins.

This timing is essential as it reinforces Jesus' mission and gives the disciples a glimpse of his divine glory before they face the trials of his crucifixion and their own future persecutions.

It is a period of Jewish expectation of the Messiah, and the Transfiguration echoes Old Testament theophanies, manifestations of God to humans, emphasizing continuity with past prophetic experiences.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reveals several key points.

Firstly, it echoes the baptism of Jesus, where a voice from heaven also declared, "This is my beloved Son." It reaffirms Jesus' unique relationship with God the Father.

Secondly, the command to "hear ye him" signals the passing of authority from the Law and the Prophets, as represented by the presence of Moses and Elijah during the Transfiguration, to Jesus.

This denotes the inauguration of a new covenant rooted in Jesus' teachings.

From a Trinitarian viewpoint, this verse reflects the relationship and distinction between the persons of the Holy Trinity: God the Father speaking, Jesus the Son being transfigured, and the Holy Spirit represented by the cloud (often associated with the divine presence in scripture).

Practical Applications

The command to "hear ye him" is an enduring directive for Christians to prioritize the teachings and example of Jesus in their daily lives. This includes obedience to his commands, reflecting on his words, and seeking guidance from the Gospels for ethical and moral living.

Additionally, it suggests the importance of paying attention during times of personal spiritual experiences or ‘mountaintop’ moments, drawing strength and insight from them to sustain one's faith during more challenging times.

Cross-References

• Matthew 3:17: "And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
• 2 Peter 1:17: "For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
• Exodus 24:15-16: "And Moses went up into the mount, and a cloud covered the mount...

And the glory of the LORD abode upon mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days."

Language Study

The key phrases in this verse are "bright cloud," "overshadowed," and "beloved Son."

• "Bright cloud" (Greek: νεφέλη φωτεινή, nephelē phōteinos): The Greek word "nephelē" refers to a cloud, with the modifier "phōteinos" indicating luminous or bright, implying divine glory.
• "Overshadowed" (Greek: ἐπισκιάζω, episkiazō): This verb conveys the idea of enveloping or covering, often used in biblical contexts to denote divine presence and protection.
• "Beloved Son" (Greek: Υἱὸς ἀγαπητός, Huios agapētos): "Agapētos" signifies cherished or dearly loved, expressing the special affection of God the Father for Jesus as his Son.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of divine beings or humans being transfigured, or displaying glory, is not unique to Christianity and can be found in various other religious traditions.

For instance, in Greco-Roman mythology, gods occasionally reveal their divine form.

In Hinduism, the god Krishna reveals his universal form to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita.

However, the Transfiguration's specific claims about Jesus' identity and role are distinct to Christian tradition.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the "bright cloud" could be subject to naturalistic interpretation, perhaps as a meteorological phenomenon.

However, the narrative presents it as a supernatural event beyond the ordinary laws of nature. The historical and factual accuracy of the Transfiguration has been debated among scholars, but for believers, the passage conveys theological truth irrespective of scientific explanation.

commentaries

Commentaries on this verse often emphasize the divine affirmation of Jesus' identity and mission.

For example, Matthew Henry's Commentary underlines the significance of the cloud and divine voice as symbols of God's presence and approval.

Similarly, the commentary in the MacArthur Study Bible provides insight into the witnessing of Jesus' glory by the disciples as a confirmation of his deity and messianic role.

These expert interpretations underscore how this verse is an integral component of the larger narrative of Jesus' life and ministry, as presented in the Gospels.