But a time for this will come, when the Bridegroom has been taken away from them: then, at that time, they will fast."

But the days will come when he will be taken away from them, and then they will go without food.

But the days will come when the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast, in those days."

But the days will come,.... And that in a very little time, as they did:
when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them: as their master, John, was taken away from them, and now in prison, and therefore it was no wonder they mourned and fasted; signifying, that in a short time he, the bridegroom of his church and people, should be taken away by death:
and then they shall fast in those days; mourn, and be humbled, of which fasting was, a sign, for the death of their Lord, and on account of the many afflictions and persecutions they should endure for his sake; See Gill on Matthew 9:15.