Luke 9:33 Meaning and Explanation
“And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto 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: not knowing what he said.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →As the visitors begin to leave, Peter, not knowing what he says, proposes building three shelters: for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.
What Does Luke 9:33 Mean?
As Moses and Elijah withdraw, Peter reaches for a way to keep the moment: Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tabernacles. Luke adds the gentle verdict, not knowing what he said. The proposal would house Jesus alongside Moses and Elijah, three honored equals on one mountain.
The instinct of Peter is touchingly human: build something, stay, make the glory permanent now. But glory cannot be fenced in at the summit while a world waits below and a cross waits at Jerusalem. And Jesus will not be ranked beside even the greatest servants of God; the cloud and the voice are about to correct the arithmetic. Worship learns its grammar here: not three shrines, but one Son.
Luke 9:33 in the Original Language
skene (σκηνή), 'tabernacles' -- a tent, a temporary shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 9:33
What does Luke 9:33 mean?
As the visitors begin to leave, Peter, not knowing what he says, proposes building three shelters: for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.