Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 17:3

"And behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elijah talking with him." — Matthew 17:3 (ASV)

On the significance of the appearance of Moses and Elijah, see comments on Mk 9:4; Lk 9:30-31. While both Moses and Elijah experienced God’s glory (Exodus 31:18; 1 Kings 19:8–13), the glory here is Jesus’ personal glory, for it is he who is transfigured and who radiates the glory of the Deity.