9:2–13 The open and forthright nature of Jesus’ teaching about his coming death in 8:31–32 is matched here by a powerful disclosure of his true significance as the Son of God. The description of the event is studded with allusions to OT passages and themes, and it is necessary to see these to appreciate what Mark wanted this story to convey to his readers.

The placement of this account right after Jesus’ promise of his future, glorious vindication (8:38–9:1) shows the reader a glimpse of that glory. The direct connection of this event with the sayings in 8:38–9:1 is underscored by the note after six days in 9:2, meaning six days after the sayings in 8:38–9:1 (cf. Luke 9:28, “about eight days”). The mention of six days is, however, also very likely an allusion to Exodus 24:15, where after …