Orthodox icon | Transfiguration of Jesus | 24835

Orthodox icon | Transfiguration of Jesus | 24835.

The event known as the Transfiguration of the Lord represents a moment of revelation, witnessed by the disciples Peter, James, and John, as they beheld Jesus Christ in a specially transformed state on a mountain. This extraordinary occurrence also featured the presence of the prophets Moses and Elijah. The Transfiguration holds the significance of a sacred mystery in the realm of faith.

Positioned in the center, Christ stands adorned in a resplendent white robe. As described in Matthew 17:2, “There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.”

Jesus engages in conversation with Moses on the right and Elijah on the left, both of whom are depicted standing on mountains. Moses represents Mount Sinai, where he received the tablets of the law from God, containing the commandments for the people of Israel (cf. Exodus 19; 20).

Elijah, on the other hand, stands on Mount Horeb, where God did not reveal Himself through storms, earthquakes, or fire, but rather through a gentle and tranquil whisper (cf. 1 Kings 19:11-13).

Moses and Elijah point towards Jesus, signifying the fulfillment of the promises made during their respective times. In His Son, Jesus Christ, God reveals Himself fully and completely. Christ represents the culmination of God’s revelation. This symbolism emphasizes the towering and profound mountain upon which Christ stands.

Beneath this scene, we find Peter, James, and John.

The Transfiguration holds great significance in the liturgical calendar of the Orthodox Church, observed as a highly revered festival. It is celebrated on August 6th, which aligns with August 19th on the Gregorian calendar in the Orthodox Churches following the Old Calendar.

The icon is placed within a later panel.

Source: Orthodox icon | Transfiguration of Jesus | 24835 © Ikonen Mautner. Typing errors, other errors or changes reserved. For more information: “Das Synaxarion. Die Leben der Heiligen der Orthodoxen Kirche.” (http://www.prodromos-verlag.de/buecher.html) and Joachim Schäfer: Das Ökumenische Heiligenlexikon – https://www.heiligenlexikon.de