Luke 5:35 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days."

This verse is part of a larger passage in which the Pharisees question Jesus about why his disciples do not fast as they and the disciples of John the Baptist do. Jesus responds with a metaphor of a wedding feast, explaining that while the bridegroom is present, it is a time of joy and celebration; but when he is taken away, then there will be a time of fasting.

The deeper meaning of this verse can be understood in several levels. On a surface level, it speaks to the nature of Jesus' ministry and his impending departure. The disciples, who are represented as the wedding guests, are currently enjoying the presence of the bridegroom (Jesus). However, there will come a time when he will be taken away from them, and during that period, they will fast in mourning and anticipation of his return.

On a deeper level, this verse is also a prelude to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The departure of the bridegroom foreshadows the crucifixion, while the fasting represents the mourning of the disciples during Jesus' crucifixion and their anticipation of his resurrection.

Additionally, this verse also highlights the themes of preparation, anticipation, and the fulfillment of prophecy. It underscores the idea that there is a time for everything and that the disciples must be prepared for the changes that will come with the departure and return of the bridegroom.

In the larger context of the Gospel of Luke, this verse also fits into the broader theme of Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and his role as the long-awaited Messiah. Throughout the Gospel of Luke, there are numerous references to Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and this verse further emphasizes that aspect of his ministry.

Symbolically, the bridegroom represents Jesus, and his departure represents his death and resurrection. The fasting represents the disciples' mourning and longing for his return. This symbolism is deeply rooted in the Jewish tradition, where fasting was a sign of mourning, repentance, and seeking God's intervention.

In a broader theological context, this verse also speaks to the nature of the Christian life. It points to the tension between the already and the not yet, meaning that believers are already experiencing the presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit, but they are also anticipating his future return. During this in-between time, believers are called to live in joyful anticipation of Jesus' return while also mourning the brokenness of the world and longing for its redemption.

In conclusion, Luke 5:35 carries deep theological and symbolic meaning. It speaks to the impending departure and return of Jesus, his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and the tension between already experiencing God's presence and not yet experiencing the fullness of his kingdom. It offers a reminder for believers to be prepared, anticipate the fulfillment of God's promises, and live in hopeful expectation of Jesus' return.