The events described in Mark 9:2-13 are critical in the ministry of Jesus. They took place upon a “high mountain.” Which mountain? The most common suggestions are Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon.
Mount Tabor
- It is a dome-shaped mountain in the Jezreel Valley.
- It is six miles east of Nazareth.
- It is eleven miles southwest of the Sea Galilee.
- It is located in the lower part of Galilee.
- It is mentioned several times in the Old Testament (Jeremiah 46:18; Hosea 5:1; Psalm 89:12). The Israelites experienced a great victory over Sisera near Mount Tabor (Judges 4).
- It is around 1900 miles above sea level.
- It is visible even from Jerusalem.
Mount Hermon
- It is the highest point in Israel (over 9,000 feet above sea level).
- Caesarea Philippi is located at the southern base. Jesus spent some time in this city (Matthew 16:13).
- Many altars and temples to false gods were made around this mountain.
- It is commonly thought to be the place where Jesus was transfigured. It was the “high mountain.”
Breaking down Mark 9:2-13
- Jesus takes three of the apostles on a high mountain. There He is transfigured. He appears in glory and majesty (Mark 9:2-3). This event was critical in confirming His identity (Mark 8:27; 2 Peter 1:16-18).
- Moses and Elijah appeared on the mountain. They were talking with Jesus about His departure (Mark 9:4; Luke 9:30-31). These men represented the works of John the Baptist and Jesus.
- The words of God the Father in Mark 9:7 are a reference to Moses’ words in Deuteronomy 18:15). This moment both frightened and confused the apostles (Mark 9:8-10).
- They seemed to understand what Moses represented on the mountain. Jesus explained to them that John was the “Elijah to come.” This confirmed that Jesus was the Christ because “Elijah” did come before His arrival (Malachi 4:5-6; Mark 9:11-13; Matthew 17:10-13).
What can we learn?
- Jesus is the Christ!
- We need to listen to Jesus!
- We need to follow Jesus!
