Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.

MATTHEW 17:4KJV
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Matthew 17:4 (KJV)

What does Matthew 17:4 mean?

Matthew 17:4 describes Peter responding to the extraordinary scene of Jesus’ transfiguration by offering to build three shelters—one each for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah—suggesting that it is good for them to remain there. Peter’s words show his desire to honor all three figures and perhaps to prolong the moment.

Peter is speaking directly to Jesus after witnessing Him shining with glory alongside Moses and Elijah on the mountain. The suggestion to make “tabernacles” (temporary shelters) reflects Peter’s awe and his instinct to do something practical in response to a deeply spiritual experience. This moment highlights Peter’s impulsive nature and his struggle to fully grasp what is happening.

The Greek behind Matthew 17:4

  • The word “tabernacles” (σκηνάς, skēnas) refers to temporary shelters or tents, often linked to the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles, which commemorated God’s presence with His people in the wilderness. Peter’s use of this word shows he wants to create a space of honor and remembrance for each figure.
  • The Greek word for “good” (καλόν, kalon) here means something fitting, beneficial, or appropriate. Peter is expressing that it is a privilege or blessing to be present for this event.
  • The phrase “if thou wilt” (ἐὰν θέλεις, ean theleis) shows Peter’s deference to Jesus’ authority, making it clear that he is offering a suggestion, not making a demand.

Why Matthew 17:4 matters

  • Matthew 17:4 shows Peter’s human tendency to respond to the divine with action, even when he does not fully understand the situation, which helps readers relate to his character.
  • The verse connects the appearance of Moses and Elijah with Jesus, visually linking the Law, the Prophets, and the Messiah, and Peter’s response reflects the disciples’ struggle to comprehend Jesus’ unique role.
  • This moment sets up the following verses, where a voice from heaven clarifies Jesus’ identity and authority, correcting Peter’s instinct to put Jesus on the same level as Moses and Elijah.

Where else these words appear

“tabernacles” Greek G4633 · used in 20 verses

  • Mark 9:5 And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
  • Hebrews 8:2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.
  • Hebrews 9:11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;

“Elias” Greek G2243 · used in 30 verses

  • Matthew 11:14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come.
  • Mark 8:28 And they answered, John the Baptist: but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets.
  • Luke 4:26 But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.

“here” Greek G5602 · used in 56 verses

  • Matthew 8:29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?
  • Mark 9:5 And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
  • Luke 23:5 And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

“three” Greek G5140 · used in 60 verses

  • Matthew 12:40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
  • Luke 12:52 For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.
  • Acts 28:17 And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.