Mark 9:7

KJV

And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} there was {G1096} a cloud {G3507} that overshadowed {G1982} them {G846}: and {G2532} a voice {G5456} came {G2064} out of {G1537} the cloud {G3507}, saying {G3004}, This {G3778} is {G2076} my {G3450} beloved {G27} Son {G5207}: hear {G191} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then a cloud enveloped them; and a voice came out of the cloud, "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!"

Berean Standard Bible

Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is My beloved Son. Listen to Him!”

American Standard Version

And there came a cloud overshadowing them: and there came a voice out of the cloud, This is my beloved Son: hear ye him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 9:7 captures the climactic moment of the Transfiguration, where a luminous cloud envelops Jesus, Peter, James, and John, and a divine voice from within it authoritatively declares Jesus' identity as God's "beloved Son" while commanding the disciples to "hear him." This profound theophany serves as a direct divine affirmation of Jesus' unique status and supreme authority, shifting the focus from the Law and Prophets to Him alone, and foreshadowing His ultimate glory and redemptive mission.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of the Transfiguration narrative found in [Mark 9:2-8](/mark/9-2-8 "Mark 9:2-8 - The Transfiguration of Jesus"). Immediately prior, Jesus' appearance is miraculously transformed, and He is seen conversing with Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, respectively. Peter, overwhelmed by the experience, suggests building three shelters, indicating a desire to prolong the moment or perhaps equate Jesus with these revered Old Testament figures. The sudden appearance of the cloud and the subsequent divine voice directly interrupts Peter's suggestion, redirecting the disciples' attention and understanding. This divine intervention serves as a powerful theological statement, asserting Jesus' preeminence over all previous revelations and figures, moving the narrative from a display of glory to a definitive declaration of identity and authority.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of a "cloud" in the Old Testament frequently signifies the manifest presence of God, often referred to as the "glory cloud" or "Shekinah glory." This was seen at Mount Sinai during the giving of the Law ([Exodus 19:9](/exodus/19-9 "Exodus 19:9 - God's Presence on Sinai")), in the Tabernacle ([Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34-35 "Exodus 40:34-35 - The Cloud Fills the Tabernacle")), and in the Temple ([1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10-11 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - The Cloud Fills the Temple")). The "voice from the cloud" therefore immediately signals a divine encounter, a theophany, reminiscent of God's direct communication with His people. The phrase "my beloved Son" echoes the language of the Davidic covenant ([Psalm 2:7](/psalm/2-7 "Psalm 2:7 - God's Son, the King")) and the Suffering Servant passages ([Isaiah 42:1](/isaiah/42-1 "Isaiah 42:1 - The Lord's Chosen Servant")), linking Jesus to both messianic kingship and redemptive suffering, concepts deeply rooted in Jewish expectation. The command "hear him" also resonates with [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses"), where Moses foretells the coming of a prophet whom the people must obey, implicitly positioning Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy.
* **Key Themes:** Mark 9:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Mark's Gospel. Firstly, it reiterates the theme of **Jesus' Divine Sonship**, a foundational truth proclaimed at His baptism ([Mark 1:11](/mark/1-11 "Mark 1:11 - Jesus' Baptism and Divine Affirmation")) and consistently underscored throughout the narrative. Secondly, the command to "hear him" establishes **Jesus' Supreme Authority**, positioning His teaching and person as the ultimate revelation of God's will, superseding the Law and the Prophets. This theme is crucial as Jesus begins to teach more explicitly about His impending suffering and death ([Mark 8:31](/mark/8-31 "Mark 8:31 - Jesus Foretells His Death")), requiring absolute trust and obedience from His disciples. Finally, the **Theophany and Divine Presence** manifested by the cloud and voice underscores the sacred and divinely orchestrated nature of Jesus' identity and mission, confirming that His journey, including His suffering, is part of God's sovereign plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **overshadowed (Greek, _episkiázō'_):** This term, from G1982, means "to cast a shade upon," but in a theological context, it implies enveloping in a haze of brilliance or investing with preternatural influence. Here, it describes the cloud's action, signifying God's active, powerful, and glorious presence. It is not merely a natural phenomenon but a divine manifestation, indicating that the cloud is not just a physical obscuration but a conduit for divine glory and revelation. This same word is used in [Luke 1:35](/luke/1-35 "Luke 1:35 - The Holy Spirit Overshadowing Mary") to describe the Holy Spirit's power coming upon Mary, connecting the Transfiguration's divine presence to the miraculous conception of Jesus.
* **beloved (Greek, _agapētós'_):** Derived from G27, this word signifies a unique, singularly loved, and cherished status. When God declares Jesus to be His "beloved Son," it emphasizes Jesus' unparalleled and intimate relationship with the Father. This is not merely an affectionate term but a theological declaration of Jesus' unique divine nature and His special place in God's plan. It highlights the Father's deep affection and approval of Jesus, affirming His identity as the unique Son of God, distinct from any other prophet or servant.
* **hear (Greek, _akoúō'_):** From G191, this primary verb means "to hear" in various senses, including giving audience, coming to the ears, or understanding. In the imperative "hear him," it conveys a strong command for attentive listening, understanding, and obedience. It's not a passive hearing but an active heeding, implying that Jesus' words carry ultimate authority and must be received with submission and faith. This divine directive elevates Jesus' teachings and person above all other voices and revelations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there was a cloud that overshadowed them:"** This clause introduces the visible manifestation of God's presence. The cloud, a traditional biblical symbol of the Shekinah glory, descends and envelops the scene. The verb "overshadowed" (G1982, _episkiázō_) denotes a divine, powerful, and protective covering, indicating that God Himself is actively present and orchestrating this moment. It signifies the sacredness and awe-inspiring nature of the event, isolating the participants in a divine encounter.
* **"and a voice came out of the cloud, saying,"** Following the visual manifestation, an auditory one confirms the divine origin. The "voice" (G5456, _phōnḗ_) emanating "out of" (G1537, _ek_) the cloud is God's direct communication, leaving no doubt about the source of the declaration. This is a verbal revelation, a direct address from the Father, which is the climax of the Transfiguration, providing explicit divine commentary on Jesus' identity.
* **"This is my beloved Son:"** This is the core declaration of the verse, echoing the affirmation at Jesus' baptism ([Mark 1:11](/mark/1-11 "Mark 1:11 - Jesus' Baptism")). The demonstrative "This" (G3778, _hoûtos_) points unequivocally to Jesus. "My beloved Son" (G3450, _moû_ G27, _agapētós_ G5207, _huiós_) is a profound theological statement, affirming Jesus' unique divine identity, His intimate relationship with the Father, and His messianic role as the Son of God. It is a declaration of approval, affection, and divine appointment.
* **"hear him."** This is the divine imperative, the direct command from the Father to the disciples. "Hear" (G191, _akoúō_) implies more than just auditory perception; it demands attentive listening, understanding, and obedient action. This command elevates Jesus' authority above Moses and Elijah, signifying that He is the ultimate revelation of God's will and the one to whom all must now listen and submit. It shifts the focus entirely onto Jesus as the final and supreme authority.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 9:7 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological significance. The most prominent is **Theophany**, the visible manifestation of God to humanity. The "cloud that overshadowed them" and the "voice came out of the cloud" are classic elements of a theophany, signaling God's direct and powerful presence, reminiscent of Old Testament encounters with the divine. This device creates an atmosphere of awe and reverence, underscoring the extraordinary nature of the event. **Symbolism** is also heavily employed, with the cloud symbolizing God's glory and presence, and the voice representing His direct communication and authority. The phrase "my beloved Son" functions as a **Divine Proclamation**, a direct, authoritative statement from God Himself that serves to unequivocally identify Jesus. The command "hear him" is a powerful **Imperative**, a direct order that highlights Jesus' supreme authority and the necessity of obedience to His teachings. This imperative also functions as a **Climax** to the Transfiguration narrative, shifting the emphasis from the display of Jesus' glory to the practical implications of His identity for the disciples' lives.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 9:7 stands as a theological cornerstone, firmly establishing Jesus' unique divine identity and supreme authority. This divine declaration serves as an interpretive key for understanding Jesus' ministry, His teachings, and His ultimate mission. It confirms that Jesus is not merely a prophet, a teacher, or a human leader, but the very Son of God, uniquely qualified to reveal God's will and accomplish His redemptive purposes. The command to "hear him" underscores the absolute necessity of discipleship centered on Jesus' words and person, positioning Him as the ultimate source of truth and guidance, superseding all previous revelations and human wisdom. This moment affirms the Father's complete approval of Jesus, providing an unshakeable foundation for faith in Him.

* [Psalm 2:7](/psalm/2-7 "Prophecy of God's Son")
* [Isaiah 42:1](/isaiah/42-1 "The Lord's Chosen Servant")
* [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "The Prophet Like Moses")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 9:7 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, urging us to re-evaluate our posture towards Jesus and His teachings. The divine command to "hear him" is not merely an ancient directive but a timeless call to prioritize Jesus' voice above all others in a world saturated with competing narratives and philosophies. This means intentionally cultivating a life of active listening to His Word, found in Scripture, and seeking to understand and obey His commands. It challenges us to examine where our ultimate authority lies and whether we truly submit to Jesus as the beloved Son of God, whose words hold ultimate truth and life. Furthermore, recognizing Jesus' unique identity as God's beloved Son should deepen our worship, strengthen our trust in His redemptive work, and empower us to live lives that reflect His character and mission. This verse reminds us that true discipleship is characterized by a humble and obedient reception of Jesus' revelation, allowing His authority to shape our beliefs, values, and actions, leading us into a deeper relationship with God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to "hear" and obey Jesus' voice above other influences?**
* **How does the Father's declaration of Jesus as "my beloved Son" impact your understanding of Jesus' identity and your personal faith?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to more intentionally prioritize listening to and acting upon Jesus' teachings?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the cloud in Mark 9:7?**

Answer: The cloud in Mark 9:7 is highly significant, serving as a traditional biblical symbol of God's manifest presence and glory, often referred to as the Shekinah. Throughout the Old Testament, a cloud frequently accompanied divine appearances, such as at Mount Sinai when God gave the Law to Moses ([Exodus 19:9](/exodus/19-9 "Exodus 19:9 - God Appears in a Thick Cloud")) and when His glory filled the Tabernacle ([Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34-35 "Exodus 40:34-35 - The Cloud Covers the Tent of Meeting")) and later the Temple ([1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10-11 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - The Cloud Fills the Temple")). Thus, the cloud "overshadowing" the disciples at the Transfiguration immediately signals a profound divine encounter, a theophany, indicating that God Himself is present and about to speak, lending ultimate authority to the voice that emanates from it.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 9:7, with its divine declaration of Jesus as "my beloved Son" and the imperative to "hear him," finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament's consistent portrayal of Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God. This moment on the mountain foreshadows Jesus' ultimate glory as the resurrected Lord and the one through whom God has spoken His final word. The Father's affirmation echoes the very nature of the eternal Son, who is the [radiance of God's glory and the exact imprint of His nature](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Jesus, the Radiance of God's Glory"). The command to "hear him" is fulfilled in the New Covenant, where Jesus is presented as the [prophet like Moses](/acts/3-22-23 "Acts 3:22-23 - Peter's Sermon: The Prophet Like Moses") whom all must obey, and whose words are [spirit and life](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - John 6:63 - Jesus' Words are Spirit and Life"). His teachings, culminating in His death and resurrection, are the definitive revelation of God's redemptive plan for humanity, superseding all previous covenants and prophetic utterances. Therefore, to "hear him" is to embrace the Gospel, to submit to His Lordship, and to find eternal life in the one whom the Father has eternally loved and uniquely appointed as Savior and King, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God").

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

2 Peter 1:17

For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 3:17

And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Luke 9:34

While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud.

Luke 9:36

And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept [it] close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.

Mark 1:11

And there came a voice from heaven, [saying], Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 17:5

While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.

Matthew 17:7

And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.