Mark 9:5

“And Peter answered and said to 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.”

In this verse, Peter is responding to a remarkable event known as the Transfiguration of Jesus: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. Prior to this verse, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up to a high mountain. There, Jesus was transfigured before them, and His appearance was changed. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white. Alongside Jesus appeared two great figures from the Old Testament: Moses and Elijah (Elias).

Peter, overwhelmed by the sight, expressed his desire to create three tabernacles, or dwellings, one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. It is a response filled with awe and reverence, as Peter recognizes the significance of this moment and the presence of these revered figures.

However, it’s important to note that Peter’s suggestion to build tabernacles was not completely accurate or necessary. It is evident from the narrative that Peter was caught up in the moment and didn’t fully understand the purpose of the Transfiguration.

The Transfiguration was a significant event that revealed Jesus’ divine nature and connected Him to the law (represented by Moses) and the prophets (represented by Elijah). It served as a confirmation to the disciples of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God and the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophecies.

Following Peter’s suggestion, a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my beloved Son, hear him.” This divine affirmation emphasised the preeminence of Jesus over Moses and Elijah, indicating that the disciples should focus their attention on Jesus alone.

Mark 9:5, therefore, highlights Peter’s initial response of reverence and awe in the face of the extraordinary event of the Transfiguration. It reminds us of the significance of recognising Jesus as the Son of God and the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophecies, surpassing the importance of any other human figures or religious symbols.