Definition: And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 9:15. It’s a really interesting and symbolic verse about Jesus’s plan for the future. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling his followers (the “bridechamber” – which is a metaphor for believers) that they shouldn’t be worried about feeling sad or mournful when He leaves them. He’s saying that eventually , things will change, and there will come a time when He won't be present with them anymore. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Jesus said unto them…” : This is Jesus speaking directly to his followers. “…Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them?” : This is the key question. “Bridechamber” refers to believers in Christ’s church – people who are part of His family and are chosen by God. The phrase "mourn" means to feel sorrow or pain. So, Jesus is asking if they should be sad or worried when He leaves. “but the days will come…” : This is a crucial point. It’s saying that this change – this eventual separation – isn't happening right now . It's a future event. “…when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.” : This is where it gets really symbolic. When Jesus leaves, He won't be physically present with them anymore. But… he’ll leave behind something more profound: a period of fasting . This “fasting” represents a spiritual discipline – a time of turning away from the world and focusing on God. So, what does this mean practically? Jesus is telling his followers to be prepared for a future where He's not there to guide and support them. It’s about a transition, a change in His presence, and a period of introspection and focus. It’s like saying, "We need to grow closer to God and prepare ourselves spiritually before He goes away." In short, it’s a message about the future – that Jesus will eventually leave us, but we should be ready for that departure with a deep spiritual focus. Important Note: This is a very symbolic passage. It's not meant to be taken literally as a prophecy of a physical departure. It speaks to the spiritual journey of believers. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism in more detail?