In the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke we have the recount of the transfiguration and the events that took place about a week prior. Luke said the transfiguration event was eight days after Jesus said, “But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.” Matthew and Mark wrote that the transfiguration happened six days after Jesus said this. What is the explanation for the difference of two days in the accounts?
Matt. 17:1 and Mark 9:2 both say,”after six days” and Luke 9:28 says it was “about eight days after”. None of these are exact references. Matthew and Mark agree that Jesus took the three disciples up the mountain after six days. This means there were six days between the day of the Lord’s statement and the day of their departure so it had to have happened at least seven days later. Luke’s statement that it was “about eight days” is in general agreement.