The answer is: Elijah and Moses

Matthew 17:3

The Transfiguration of Jesus is a breathtaking moment where spiritual realms intertwine with earthly realities. To have Moses and Elijah show up alongside Jesus is packed with significance. Moses represents the Law, the one who received the commandments on Mount Sinai. Meanwhile, Elijah embodies the prophets, a powerful voice calling Israel back to faithfulness to God.

Imagine being one of Jesus’ disciples, witnessing this: a literal spectacle of faith's rich heritage. As they stood beneath the shimmering presence of Christ, it echoed past events like the renewal of the covenant given to Israel by Moses, and the fiery times when Elijah confronted false prophets and called down God’s power.

And let’s dive into trivia! Did you know that both Moses and Elijah had notable exits from this world? Moses died in secret on Mount Nebo, with God Himself burying him, leaving no tomb. Elijah, on the other hand, was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, a dramatic skateboard ride on divine wind! Their appearances at the Transfiguration not only tied Jesus to Israel’s foundational narratives but also solidified His role as the culmination of both Law and Prophesy... a bridge from one sacred covenant to a new era.

Importantly, the Transfiguration also signifies the unity of these divine missions. It harkens back to various symbols where mountains become pivotal: consider the mountains of both Sinai and Carmel where God interacted with His people. This event affirms Jesus as both teacher and divine presence, hinting at transformative possibilities for anyone willing to venture into that same divine light.