What does the word transfiguration mean? The word transfiguration comes from the Latin roots trans- (across) and figura (form, shape). It thus signifies a change of form or appearance. This is what happened to Jesus in the event known as the Transfiguration: His appearance changed and became glorious. Christian theology assigns a great deal of significance to the Transfiguration, based on multiple elements of the narrative. In Christian teachings, the Transfiguration is a pivotal moment, and the setting on the mountain is presented as the point where human nature meets God: the meeting place for the temporal and the eternal, with Jesus himself as the connecting point, acting as the bridge between heaven and earth. The Transfiguration not only supports the identity of Jesus as the Son of God (as in his Baptism), but the statement listen to him, identifies him as the messenger and mouth-piece of God. The significance of this identification is enhanced by the presence of Elijah and Moses, for it indicates to the apostles that Jesus is the voice of God par excellence, and instead of Elijah or Moses, he should be listened to, surpassing the laws of Moses by virtue of his filial relationship with God. 2 Peter 1:16–18, echoes the same message: at the Transfiguration God assigns to Jesus a special honor and glory and it is the turning point at which God exalts Jesus above all other powers in creation, and positions him as ruler and judge. The Transfiguration also echoes the teaching by Jesus (as in Matthew 22:32) that God is not the God of the dead, but of the living. Although Moses had died and Elijah had been taken up to heaven centuries before (as in 2 Kings 2:11), they now live in the presence of the Son of God, implying that the same return to life can apply to all who face death and have faith. Good morning! It is well with u. I love u in Christ!!!!
Posted on: Wed, 06 Aug 2014 07:01:41 +0000
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