How is the word transfigure different from other verbs like it? Some synonyms of transfigure are convert, metamorphose, transform. While these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

Jesus was glorified in his divinity in front of Peter, James and John - his face shining like the sun as Moses's face was when he encountered God at Mount Sinai. The three disciples felt fear and awe, yet the assuring familiarity with their master was calming. Peter wanted to freeze that encounter by building three tents. He was thinking as any Israelite would have. A tent expressed the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the people. In a way, Peter wanted to remain in the holy presence of God.

Indeed, they had encountered Jesus in his divinity - the beloved Son of God. And now, they revert to another of the Israelite beliefs - that a person would die if he sees the face of God! But, their master did the most assuring thing - he touched them, besides saying, "Do not be afraid." How blessed they were to encounter Jesus in his divinity. Yet, such an encounter is available to us as followers of Jesus. He is present in a special way in the Eucharist at Mass, and in the tabernacle in our churches.