Mark 2:20 (KJV)

What does Mark 2:20 mean?

Mark 2:20 means that there will come a time when Jesus, described here as the bridegroom, will be taken away from his followers, and in that time, his followers will fast. Jesus is telling his listeners that while he is present with them, fasting is not needed, but a time of sorrow and longing will come when he is gone.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to people questioning why his disciples do not fast like other religious groups. He uses the image of a wedding, calling himself the "bridegroom," to explain that his presence is a time of joy, not mourning. The statement about the bridegroom being "taken away" hints at his future suffering and death, making this a subtle prediction of what is to come.

The Greek behind Mark 2:20

• νυμφίος (nymphios, "bridegroom"): This word paints a picture of celebration and closeness, showing that Jesus sees his relationship with his followers as joyful and intimate, like that of a groom with his wedding guests.
• ἀπαρθῇ (aparthē, "shall be taken away"): This verb often carries a sense of being removed suddenly or forcefully, hinting at the coming loss and sorrow when Jesus will be separated from his disciples.
• νηστεύσουσιν (nēsteusousin, "shall they fast"): The Greek word here refers specifically to the act of abstaining from food for religious reasons, making clear that fasting is tied to times of grief or longing, not celebration.

Why Mark 2:20 matters

• Mark 2:20 clarifies that fasting is not a constant religious duty but is connected to particular seasons—specifically, times of sorrow or absence.
• This verse helps explain why Jesus' followers acted differently from other religious groups of the time, grounding their behavior in their relationship with him.
• Mark 2:20 connects to the larger theme in Mark 2 of Jesus redefining religious practices and pointing to his unique role and coming sacrifice.