Bride-chamber, Sons (Children) of the

(hoi huioi tou numphonos): These were friends or companions of the bridegroom and were usually very numerous (Mt 9:15; Mr 2:19; Lu 5:34). Any wedding guest might be included in the expression, or anyone who took part in the bridal procession and remained for the wedding-feast (see MARRIAGE). In the above passages "the sons of the bride-chamber" are the disciples of Christ.