Luke 9:32

KJV

But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} Peter {G4074} and {G2532} they that were with {G4862} him {G846} were {G2258} heavy {G916} with sleep {G5258}: and {G1161} when they were awake {G1235}, they saw {G1492} his {G846} glory {G1391}, and {G2532} the two {G1417} men {G435} that stood with {G4921} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Kefa and those with him had been sound asleep; but on becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.

Berean Standard Bible

Meanwhile Peter and his companions were overcome by sleep, but when they awoke, they saw Jesus’ glory and the two men standing with Him.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 9:32 captures a pivotal moment during the Transfiguration, revealing both the human frailty of the disciples and the overwhelming divine manifestation of Jesus' glory. Despite their profound drowsiness, Peter, James, and John were granted a glimpse of Christ's radiant, divine nature and witnessed Him conversing with two monumental figures of Old Testament history, Moses and Elijah, a vision intended to strengthen their faith for the trials ahead.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the dramatic account of the Transfiguration, which serves as a crucial theological and narrative pivot in Luke's Gospel. Immediately preceding this event, Jesus had given His first clear prediction of His suffering, death, and resurrection in Jerusalem, a concept difficult for the disciples to grasp ([Luke 9:22](/luke/9-22 "Luke 9:22 - Jesus Foretells His Death")). This was followed by His challenging call for discipleship, emphasizing self-denial and cross-bearing ([Luke 9:23-27](/luke/9-23-27 "Luke 9:23-27 - The Cost of Discipleship")). The Transfiguration, therefore, acts as a powerful counterpoint and affirmation of Jesus' divine identity and ultimate victory, providing a necessary spiritual anchor for the disciples before they embark on the journey to Jerusalem and witness His crucifixion. The narrative in [Luke 9:28-31](/luke/9-28-31 "Luke 9:28-31 - The Transfiguration Account") details Jesus taking Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray, where His appearance dramatically changed, and Moses and Elijah appeared, discussing His "departure" (exodus) which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Mountains in biblical tradition often served as places of divine encounter and revelation (e.g., Mount Sinai for Moses). Taking the disciples "up into a mountain to pray" ([Luke 9:28](/luke/9-28 "Luke 9:28 - Jesus Prays on the Mountain")) aligns with this pattern. The presence of Moses, who received the Law, and Elijah, the greatest of the prophets, would have been profoundly significant to Jewish listeners. They represented the entirety of the Old Testament revelation, validating Jesus as its fulfillment and climax. The concept of "glory" (Hebrew: *kavod*, Greek: *doxa*) was deeply ingrained in Jewish thought, referring to the visible manifestation of God's presence and majesty, often associated with the Shekinah glory in the tabernacle and temple. The disciples' sleepiness, while seemingly mundane, reflects the human inability to fully comprehend or sustain the intensity of divine encounters, a theme seen elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., the Garden of Gethsemane in [Luke 22:45](/luke/22-45 "Luke 22:45 - Disciples Asleep in Gethsemane")).
* **Key Themes:** Luke 9:32 contributes to several major themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully highlights **the revelation of Christ's divine glory**, providing a glimpse into His inherent deity that transcends His human form, prefiguring His resurrection and heavenly reign. Secondly, it underscores **human weakness and the need for spiritual vigilance**, as the disciples' physical weariness causes them to miss part of this profound spiritual event, contrasting sharply with the divine activity unfolding before them. Thirdly, the appearance of Moses and Elijah emphasizes **the continuity and fulfillment of God's redemptive plan**, demonstrating that Jesus is the culmination of the Law and the Prophets. Finally, this glorious vision serves as **preparation for future trials**, strengthening the disciples' faith and providing them with an enduring image of Christ's ultimate triumph, which would be crucial for them to recall during the impending suffering and crucifixion of Jesus in Jerusalem ([Luke 9:31](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Moses and Elijah Discuss Jesus' Departure")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heavy with sleep (Greek, _baréō hýpnos'_):** This phrase combines the verb `baréō` (G916), meaning "to weigh down" or "to burden," and the noun `hýpnos` (G5258), meaning "sleep" or, figuratively, "spiritual torpor." The combination vividly portrays a profound, oppressive drowsiness that made it exceedingly difficult for Peter and the others to remain awake. It suggests a physical and perhaps spiritual lethargy that hindered their full engagement with the divine revelation unfolding before them.
* **Awake (Greek, _diagrēgoréō'_):** The verb `diagrēgoréō` (G1235) is a strong compound verb, formed from `dia` (through, thoroughly) and `grēgoreúō` (to be watchful, to wake). It signifies a thorough awakening, an overcoming of the heavy sleep. This implies a sudden and complete transition from deep slumber to full consciousness, allowing them to perceive the extraordinary scene before them.
* **Glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** The term `dóxa` (G1391) refers to divine splendor, majesty, radiance, or honor. In this context, it describes the visible manifestation of Jesus' inherent divine nature, a brilliant, supernatural light that shone from Him. This is not merely human honor but a revelation of His intrinsic deity, echoing the glory of God revealed in the Old Testament (e.g., the Shekinah glory).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep:"** This clause immediately establishes the human element of the scene, highlighting the disciples' physical and spiritual struggle. Despite being chosen to witness a profound divine event, they succumbed to deep drowsiness, a common human frailty that contrasts sharply with the divine activity. The inclusion of "Peter and they that were with him" (James and John) emphasizes that even the inner circle of disciples, privileged to be closest to Jesus, were not immune to this human limitation.
* **"and when they were awake, they saw his glory,"** This transitional phrase marks the moment of their awakening, suggesting a sudden and perhaps startling realization of the extraordinary event. Upon waking, their perception shifted from mundane sleep to a direct encounter with the divine. The object of their sight is "his glory," a direct, visible manifestation of Jesus' divine majesty and splendor, which momentarily transcended His earthly appearance. This vision was not merely an ordinary sight but a supernatural revelation.
* **"and the two men that stood with him."** This final phrase completes the description of the vision, identifying the companions of Jesus. These "two men" are explicitly identified in [Luke 9:30](/luke/9-30 "Luke 9:30 - Moses and Elijah Appear") as Moses and Elijah, figures of immense significance in Jewish tradition. Their presence validates Jesus' messianic identity and mission, signifying that He is the culmination of the Law and the Prophets, and that His impending "departure" (death) in Jerusalem is part of God's sovereign plan.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 9:32 effectively employs several literary devices to enhance its theological impact. **Juxtaposition** is prominent, contrasting the disciples' human weakness ("heavy with sleep") with the overwhelming divine power and majesty of Jesus ("his glory"). This contrast underscores the transcendence of the divine and the limitations of the human. **Symbolism** is also at play, particularly with the "glory" of Jesus, which symbolizes His inherent deity and prefigures His resurrection and ultimate heavenly reign. The presence of Moses and Elijah further reinforces **symbolism**, representing the Law and the Prophets, thereby signifying that Jesus fulfills the entire Old Testament revelation. Finally, the entire Transfiguration account, including this verse, functions as **Foreshadowing**, preparing the disciples (and the reader) for the difficult journey to the cross and the subsequent resurrection, providing a glimpse of Christ's ultimate victory and divine authority that would sustain them through the impending trials.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 9:32 offers a profound theological statement about the person of Jesus Christ. It is a direct revelation of His divine nature, demonstrating that He is more than just a prophet or a teacher; He is the Son of God, possessing inherent glory. This moment on the mountain serves as a crucial affirmation of Jesus' identity, not only for the disciples but for all believers. It links His earthly ministry to His heavenly glory, providing a glimpse of His ultimate triumph over sin and death. The disciples' sleepiness, while a human failing, also highlights the overwhelming nature of divine revelation and the need for spiritual attentiveness in the presence of God. This vision, given before the journey to the cross, was intended to fortify their faith, reminding them that suffering is not the end, but a path to glory.

* [2 Peter 1:16-18](/2_peter/1-16-18 "2 Peter 1:16-18 - Peter's Eyewitness Account of the Transfiguration")
* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation")
* [Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - The Radiance of God's Glory")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 9:32 invites us to consider our own spiritual attentiveness in the presence of God's revelation. Just as the disciples were "heavy with sleep," we too can become spiritually drowsy, missing out on moments of divine encounter or failing to grasp the full significance of God's truth. This verse serves as a powerful reminder to cultivate spiritual vigilance, to be awake and alert to God's presence and work in our lives, whether through His Word, prayer, or the circumstances He orchestrates. The vision of Jesus' glory, given before His suffering, also teaches us that God often provides glimpses of His power and purpose to strengthen us for the trials and challenges that lie ahead. This divine encouragement is not meant to bypass suffering but to equip us to face it with enduring faith, knowing that ultimate glory follows the path of the cross. Our focus should always be centered on Christ, the supreme revelation of God, who fulfills all of God's promises.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your spiritual life might you be "heavy with sleep," and how can you cultivate greater vigilance?**
* **How does the revelation of Jesus' glory at the Transfiguration strengthen your faith in the face of life's difficulties?**
* **What "glory" of God have you witnessed or experienced recently, and how did it impact your perspective?**
* **How does understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets deepen your appreciation for His identity and mission?**

### FAQ

**Why were the disciples "heavy with sleep" during such a significant event?**

Answer: The text states that Peter and those with him "were heavy with sleep," indicating a profound physical drowsiness. While the exact cause isn't specified, it could have been due to the late hour, the physical exertion of climbing the mountain, or simply the overwhelming nature of the spiritual experience itself. This human frailty serves to highlight the contrast between their limited human capacity and the boundless divine power being manifested. It also underscores a recurring theme in the Gospels where disciples struggle with spiritual vigilance, as seen later in [Gethsemane](/luke/22-45 "Luke 22:45 - Disciples Asleep in Gethsemane").

**What is the significance of "his glory" that the disciples saw?**

Answer: The "glory" (Greek: *dóxa*) that the disciples saw was a visible manifestation of Jesus' inherent divine nature. It was not merely a human radiance but a supernatural splendor, akin to the Shekinah glory of God in the Old Testament. This moment revealed Jesus' true identity as the Son of God, momentarily stripping away His earthly appearance to display His heavenly majesty. It served as a powerful confirmation of His deity, prefiguring His resurrection glory and His ultimate exaltation at the right hand of God ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation")).

**Why were Moses and Elijah the two men who appeared with Jesus?**

Answer: Moses and Elijah were highly significant figures in Jewish tradition, representing the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah). Their appearance with Jesus at the Transfiguration served several crucial purposes. Firstly, it demonstrated that Jesus was the culmination and fulfillment of the entire Old Testament revelation. He was not contradicting the Law and the Prophets but bringing them to their ultimate purpose. Secondly, their discussion with Jesus about His "departure" (Greek: *exodos*) which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem ([Luke 9:31](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Moses and Elijah Discuss Jesus' Departure")) underscored the divine necessity and redemptive purpose of His impending suffering, death, and resurrection. This confirmed that Jesus' mission was part of God's eternal plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 9:32, with its vivid portrayal of Jesus' transfigured glory, serves as a powerful Christ-centered fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and a profound revelation of His divine person. The appearance of Moses, representing the Law, and Elijah, representing the Prophets, signifies that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of all that the Old Testament anticipated. He is the one to whom the Law pointed, and the one about whom the Prophets spoke. This moment on the mountain is a prefiguration of Christ's resurrection glory and His ultimate exaltation as King of kings and Lord of lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). The disciples' glimpse of His divine majesty was a necessary strengthening for the trials ahead, particularly the cross, reminding them that suffering is not the end but the path to ultimate glory. In Christ, we see the full radiance of God's glory, for He is "the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - The Radiance of God's Glory")). This vision assures us that the Jesus who suffered and died is the same Jesus who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), and who will one day return in power and great glory ([Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Matthew 24:30 - The Son of Man Coming in Glory")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 1:14

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Daniel 8:18

Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.

Daniel 10:9

Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.

Luke 22:45

And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,

Luke 22:46

And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.

John 17:24

¶ Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

Isaiah 60:1

¶ Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.