### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma νυμφών (nymphṓn) `{{G3567}}` is derived from νύμφη (nymphe) `{{G3565}}`, meaning "bride" or "young woman." Its core semantic range encompasses "the bridal room," "wedding chamber," or "nuptial hall." It denotes the specific space where a wedding celebration occurs, particularly the intimate chamber or hall associated with the bride and groom. The term inherently carries connotations of festivity, joy, intimacy, and the commencement of a new covenantal relationship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term νυμφών `{{G3567}}` appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, always in the phrase "sons of the bridechamber" (οἱ υἱοὶ τοῦ νυμφῶνος), referring to the wedding guests or companions of the bridegroom.
* In [[Matthew 9:15]], [[Mark 2:19]], and [[Luke 5:34]], Jesus uses the analogy of the wedding guests to explain why His disciples do not fast while He is with them. He states, "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?" (Matthew). The presence of the bridegroom (Jesus) signifies a time of immense joy and celebration, making practices associated with mourning or longing (like fasting) incongruous. The "sons of the bridechamber" are those intimately associated with the bridegroom, sharing in his joyous presence.
* The consistent use across these parallel passages underscores that νυμφών represents the locus of profound joy and festivity, directly linked to the presence of the bridegroom. The implication is that those who are with the bridegroom are participants in this joy, and their experience should reflect it.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **νύμφη (nymphe) `{{G3565}}`**: The root word for "bride," emphasizing the central figure of the marriage covenant.
* **νυμφίος (nymphios) `{{G3566}}`**: "Bridegroom," the other essential figure whose presence transforms the νυμφών into a place of celebration.
* **Marriage/Wedding Feast**: Throughout Scripture, the concept of a marriage feast is a powerful motif, often symbolizing God's covenantal relationship with His people and, eschatologically, the ultimate union of Christ and the Church. The νυμφών is the physical setting for this symbolic event.
* **Joy and Celebration**: The context in which νυμφών appears directly links it to unbridled joy, contrasting sharply with mourning or fasting.
* **Covenant**: Marriage, inherently a covenantal bond, finds its public celebration within the νυμφών, signifying the establishment of a new, sacred relationship.
### Theological Significance
The νυμφών `{{G3567}}` serves as a profound theological metaphor in Jesus' self-revelation and teaching.
* **The Presence of the Messiah**: By identifying Himself as the bridegroom and His disciples as the "sons of the bridechamber," Jesus declares that His presence inaugurates a new era of joy and fulfillment, the very presence of the Kingdom of God. This joy is so overwhelming that traditional practices of mourning or repentance, such as fasting, are temporarily suspended.
* **Eschatological Fulfillment**: The imagery of the bridegroom and wedding feast is deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy, where God is depicted as the bridegroom of Israel (e.g., [[Isaiah 62:5]], [[Hosea 2:19-20]]). In the New Testament, this imagery is applied to Christ and His Church, culminating in the "marriage supper of the Lamb" in [[Revelation 19:7-9]]. The νυμφών thus anticipates this ultimate, glorious eschatological celebration.
* **Nature of Discipleship**: To be a "son of the bridechamber" signifies an intimate, privileged association with the bridegroom, sharing in His joy, mission, and ultimate triumph. It underscores that discipleship is not primarily a burden of asceticism but a participation in divine joy and a foretaste of future glory.
### Summary
The Greek word νυμφών (nymphṓn) `{{G3567}}` literally refers to the "bridal room" or "wedding hall," a space of celebration and intimacy. In the New Testament, its significance is primarily metaphorical, appearing in the phrase "sons of the bridechamber" in the Synoptic Gospels. This phrase describes those who are intimately present with the bridegroom (Jesus), sharing in the profound joy that His presence brings. Jesus uses this imagery to explain why His disciples do not fast while He is with them, emphasizing that His advent marks a time of joyous fulfillment rather than sorrow or longing. The νυμφών thus symbolizes the joyous reality of the Messiah's presence and serves as a powerful anticipation of the ultimate eschatological wedding feast of the Lamb, highlighting the celebratory and covenantal nature of God's relationship with His people through Christ.
TRV