Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 9:32

"Now Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: but when they were fully awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him." — Luke 9:32 (ASV)

The writers of the Gospels use fear and sleepiness to indicate the slowness of the disciples to understand and believe. They were far from alert during the conversation with Moses and Elijah about Jesus’ approaching passion; and the spectacular scene aroused them thoroughly.