T&T Clark While the Bridegroom is with them - Gospel of Matthew Study

This scholarly examination from The Library of New Testament Studies series challenges traditional allegorical interpretations of Matthew's parables, particularly the Wedding Feast (22.1-14) and Ten Virgins (25.1-13). The study deconstructs centuries of interpretive convention by demonstrating how Hebrew, Greek, and Roman texts portray bridegrooms connected to both joy and violence without requiring allegorical readings. Rather than accepting the standard scholarly view that associates the 'king' with God and the 'bridegroom' with Jesus whilst justifying their violent actions, this work provides historical and textual evidence that these narrative patterns reflect broader ancient literary conventions. The analysis explores how gender dynamics, family structures, and depictions of violence in Matthew's gospel have been shaped by interpretive tradition, offering scholars, theologians and biblical students a fresh perspective on foundational New Testament passages. Ideal for graduate-level study and serious biblical scholarship.