Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 17:4

"And Peter answered, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, I will make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah." — Matthew 17:4 (ASV)

Let us make here three tabernacles. A tabernacle is a tent. It was commonly made by fixing posts into the ground, and stretching cloth on them, fastened by cords. (See Barnes on Isaiah 33:20).

In some instances, they were made of branches of trees—a temporary shelter from the sun and rain, not a permanent dwelling. Peter rejoiced at the vision, and desired to continue it. He proposed, therefore, that they should prolong this interview, and dwell there. Mark adds, that they did not know what they said in proposing this. They were frightened, amazed, and rejoiced; and, in the ecstasy of the moment, they proposed to remain there.