Numphon denotes the bridegroom whose presence frames the sayings about fasting and mourning.

The attested use identifies the bridegroom in sayings where his presence means that fasting or mourning is not fitting, while his removal is associated with later fasting.

1. Bridegroom present among his companions · dominant

   All three occurrences are genitive singular masculine and occur in the expression concerning the sons of the bridegroom. In Luke 5:34 and Mark 2:19 the APB renders the clause with the bridegroom present while fasting is not possible; in Matthew 9:15 it contrasts his presence with his being taken away, after which fasting follows.

   Luke 5:34Mark 2:19Matthew 9:15

In the Anselm Project Bible: Across the three verses, the APB presents the term as "bridegroom" in clauses about his presence; Matthew 9:15 also renders him as being "taken away." The verse is read as a whole.