2 Kings 4:39
2 Kings 4:39 in Multiple Translations
One of them went out to the field to gather herbs, and he found a wild vine from which he gathered as many wild gourds as his garment could hold. Then he came back and cut them up into the pot of stew, though no one knew what they were.
And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered thereof wild gourds his lap full, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage: for they knew them not.
And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered thereof wild gourds his lap full, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage; for they knew them not.
And one went out into the field to get green plants and saw a vine of the field, and pulling off the fruit of it till the fold of his robe was full, he came back and put the fruit, cut up small, into the pot of soup, having no idea what it was.
One of them went out into the countryside to pick herbs. He found a wild vine and picked as many wild gourds as his cloak could hold. Then he came back and chopped them up into the pot of stew. But nobody knew they were dangerous to eat.
And one went out into the fielde, to gather herbes, and founde, as it were, a wilde vine, and gathered thereof wilde gourdes his garment ful, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage: for they knew it not.
And one goeth out unto the field to gather herbs, and findeth a vine of the field, and gathereth of it gourds of the field — the fulness of his garment — and cometh in and splitteth [them] into the pot of pottage, for they knew [them] not;
One went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered a lap full of wild gourds from it, and came and cut them up into the pot of stew; for they didn’t recognize them.
And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered from it wild gourds his lap full, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage: for they knew them not.
And one went out into the field to gather wild herbs: and he found something like a wild vine, and gathered of it wild gourds of the field, and filled his mantle, and coming back he shred them into the pot of pottage, for he knew not what it was.
One of the prophets went out to the fields to gather some vegetables. But he gathered only some wild gourds and put them in his cloak and brought them back. He shredded them and put them in the pot, but he did not know that the gourds were poisonous.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 4:39
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Kings 4:39 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֵּצֵ֨א
אֶחָ֣ד
אֶל
הַ/שָּׂדֶה֮
לְ/לַקֵּ֣ט
אֹרֹת֒
וַ/יִּמְצָא֙
גֶּ֣פֶן
שָׂדֶ֔ה
וַ/יְלַקֵּ֥ט
מִמֶּ֛/נּוּ
פַּקֻּעֹ֥ת
שָׂדֶ֖ה
מְלֹ֣א
בִגְד֑/וֹ
וַ/יָּבֹ֗א
וַ/יְפַלַּ֛ח
אֶל
סִ֥יר
הַ/נָּזִ֖יד
כִּֽי
לֹ֥א
יָדָֽעוּ
וַ/יֵּצֵ֨א
yâtsâʼ
H3318
to come out
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶחָ֣ד
ʼechâd
H259
one
Adj
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
הַ/שָּׂדֶה֮
sâdeh
H7704
field
Art | N-ms
לְ/לַקֵּ֣ט
lâqaṭ
H3950
to gather
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
אֹרֹת֒
ʼôwrâh
H219
light
N-fp
וַ/יִּמְצָא֙
mâtsâʼ
H4672
to find
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
גֶּ֣פֶן
gephen
H1612
vine
N-cs
שָׂדֶ֔ה
sâdeh
H7704
field
N-ms
וַ/יְלַקֵּ֥ט
lâqaṭ
H3950
to gather
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
מִמֶּ֛/נּוּ
min
H4480
from
Prep | Suff
פַּקֻּעֹ֥ת
paqquʻâh
H6498
gourd
N-fp
שָׂדֶ֖ה
sâdeh
H7704
field
N-ms
מְלֹ֣א
mᵉlôʼ
H4393
fullness
N-ms
בִגְד֑/וֹ
beged
H899
treachery
N-ms | Suff
וַ/יָּבֹ֗א
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
וַ/יְפַלַּ֛ח
pâlach
H6398
to cleave
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
סִ֥יר
çîyr
H5518
pot
N-cs
הַ/נָּזִ֖יד
nâzîyd
H5138
stew
Art | N-ms
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יָדָֽעוּ
yâdaʻ
H3045
to know
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 4:39
וַ/יֵּצֵ֨א
yâtsâʼ
H3318
"to come out"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth
Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.
אֶחָ֣ד
ʼechâd
H259
"one"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.
Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)
Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
הַ/שָּׂדֶה֮
sâdeh
H7704
"field"
Art | N-ms
A field or land is what this word represents, often referring to a flat area of land used for cultivation or as a habitat for wild animals, as described in the book of Genesis. It can also mean a plain or a country, as opposed to a mountain or sea. This term is used in the story of Ruth and Boaz.
Definition: 1) field, land 1a) cultivated field 1b) of home of wild beasts 1c) plain (opposed to mountain) 1d) land (opposed to sea)
Usage: Occurs in 309 OT verses. KJV: country, field, ground, land, soil, [idiom] wild. See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 28:38; Nehemiah 12:29.
לְ/לַקֵּ֣ט
lâqaṭ
H3950
"to gather"
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
This verb means to gather or pick up, like gleaning leftover crops in a field. It is used in various forms to describe collecting or gathering things.
Definition: 1) to pick up, gather, glean, gather up 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pick up, gather 1a2) to glean 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to gather, gather up 1b2) to collect (money) 1b3) to glean 1c) (Pual) to be picked up 1d) (Hithpael) to collect oneself
Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: gather (up), glean. See also: Genesis 31:46; Ruth 2:2; Psalms 104:28.
אֹרֹת֒
ʼôwrâh
H219
"light"
N-fp
This word refers to a plant or herb, but also symbolizes prosperity and brightness. It's used in the Bible to describe growth and flourishing, like a healthy herb. In some cases, it's translated as 'light'.
Definition: 1) light 2) light of joy and happiness (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: herb, light. See also: 2 Kings 4:39; Psalms 139:12; Isaiah 26:19.
וַ/יִּמְצָא֙
mâtsâʼ
H4672
"to find"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
Matsa means to find or attain something, whether it is a physical object, a person, or a condition, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to find, attain to 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to find 1a1a) to find, secure, acquire, get (thing sought) 1a1b) to find (what is lost) 1a1c) to meet, encounter 1a1d) to find (a condition) 1a1e) to learn, devise 1a2) to find out 1a2a) to find out 1a2b) to detect 1a2c) to guess 1a3) to come upon, light upon 1a3a) to happen upon, meet, fall in with 1a3b) to hit 1a3c) to befall 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be found 1b1a) to be encountered, be lighted upon, be discovered 1b1b) to appear, be recognised 1b1c) to be discovered, be detected 1b1d) to be gained, be secured 1b2) to be, be found 1b2a) to be found in 1b2b) to be in the possession of 1b2c) to be found in (a place), happen to be 1b2d) to be left (after war) 1b2e) to be present 1b2f) to prove to be 1b2g) to be found sufficient, be enough 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to find, attain 1c2) to cause to light upon, come upon, come 1c3) to cause to encounter 1c4) to present (offering)
Usage: Occurs in 425 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be able, befall, being, catch, [idiom] certainly, (cause to) come (on, to, to hand), deliver, be enough (cause to) find(-ing, occasion, out), get (hold upon), [idiom] have (here), be here, hit, be left, light (up-) on, meet (with), [idiom] occasion serve, (be) present, ready, speed, suffice, take hold on. See also: Genesis 2:20; Deuteronomy 22:3; 2 Kings 9:35.
גֶּ֣פֶן
gephen
H1612
"vine"
N-cs
The Hebrew word for vine, often referring to Israel or prosperity, appears in the Bible as a symbol of God's people. It is also used to describe a grapevine. In the Bible, vines are often associated with abundance and fruitfulness.
Definition: 1) vine, vine tree 1a) of Israel (fig.) 1b) of stars fading at Jehovah's judgment (metaph.) 1c) of prosperity
Usage: Occurs in 53 OT verses. KJV: vine, tree. See also: Genesis 40:9; Isaiah 24:7; Psalms 78:47.
שָׂדֶ֔ה
sâdeh
H7704
"field"
N-ms
A field or land is what this word represents, often referring to a flat area of land used for cultivation or as a habitat for wild animals, as described in the book of Genesis. It can also mean a plain or a country, as opposed to a mountain or sea. This term is used in the story of Ruth and Boaz.
Definition: 1) field, land 1a) cultivated field 1b) of home of wild beasts 1c) plain (opposed to mountain) 1d) land (opposed to sea)
Usage: Occurs in 309 OT verses. KJV: country, field, ground, land, soil, [idiom] wild. See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 28:38; Nehemiah 12:29.
וַ/יְלַקֵּ֥ט
lâqaṭ
H3950
"to gather"
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
This verb means to gather or pick up, like gleaning leftover crops in a field. It is used in various forms to describe collecting or gathering things.
Definition: 1) to pick up, gather, glean, gather up 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pick up, gather 1a2) to glean 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to gather, gather up 1b2) to collect (money) 1b3) to glean 1c) (Pual) to be picked up 1d) (Hithpael) to collect oneself
Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: gather (up), glean. See also: Genesis 31:46; Ruth 2:2; Psalms 104:28.
מִמֶּ֛/נּוּ
min
H4480
"from"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
פַּקֻּעֹ֥ת
paqquʻâh
H6498
"gourd"
N-fp
This word refers to a type of wild gourd or cucumber that splits open to release its seeds. In the book of Jonah, a gourd plant grows to provide shade for the prophet. The word is often used to describe a type of vine or plant.
Definition: gourds
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: gourd. See also: 2 Kings 4:39.
שָׂדֶ֖ה
sâdeh
H7704
"field"
N-ms
A field or land is what this word represents, often referring to a flat area of land used for cultivation or as a habitat for wild animals, as described in the book of Genesis. It can also mean a plain or a country, as opposed to a mountain or sea. This term is used in the story of Ruth and Boaz.
Definition: 1) field, land 1a) cultivated field 1b) of home of wild beasts 1c) plain (opposed to mountain) 1d) land (opposed to sea)
Usage: Occurs in 309 OT verses. KJV: country, field, ground, land, soil, [idiom] wild. See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 28:38; Nehemiah 12:29.
מְלֹ֣א
mᵉlôʼ
H4393
"fullness"
N-ms
Fullness means having everything that is needed, like a full container or a complete amount. It can also mean a large quantity, like a multitude of things.
Definition: 1) fulness, that which fills 1a) fulness, handful 1b) mass, multitude 1c) fulness, that which fills, entire contents 1d) full length, full line
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] all along, [idiom] all that is (there-) in, fill, ([idiom] that whereof...was) full, fulness, (hand-) full, multitude. See also: Genesis 48:19; Psalms 89:12; Psalms 24:1.
בִגְד֑/וֹ
beged
H899
"treachery"
N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, this word refers to clothing or a covering, like a garment or robe. It appears in books like Genesis and Exodus, describing what people wore. The word is often translated as 'apparel' or 'raiment'.
Definition: treachery, deceit
Usage: Occurs in 190 OT verses. KJV: apparel, cloth(-es, ing), garment, lap, rag, raiment, robe, [idiom] very (treacherously), vesture, wardrobe. See also: Genesis 24:53; Judges 17:10; Psalms 22:19.
וַ/יָּבֹ֗א
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
וַ/יְפַלַּ֛ח
pâlach
H6398
"to cleave"
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
To cleave means to slice or break open something, like cutting through a material or piercing an object, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to cleave, slice 1a) (Qal) to cleave, plow 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to cleave open or through 1b2) to cause to cleave open 1b3) to slice, pierce
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: bring forth, cleave, cut, shred, strike through. See also: 2 Kings 4:39; Job 39:3; Psalms 141:7.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
סִ֥יר
çîyr
H5518
"pot"
N-cs
This word refers to a thorn or a hook, something that springs up rapidly. It can also mean a pot or a pan, and is used in various contexts in the Bible, including cooking and fishing.
Definition: 1) pot 1a) pot (household utensil) 1b) pot (of temple)
Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: caldron, fishhook, pan, (wash-)pot, thorn. See also: Exodus 16:3; Ecclesiastes 7:6; Psalms 58:10.
הַ/נָּזִ֖יד
nâzîyd
H5138
"stew"
Art | N-ms
A stew or pottage is a type of boiled food, like a soup. This word is used in the Bible to describe a simple meal, often made from boiled ingredients. It is a common food in ancient times.
Definition: boiled food, soup, pottage, thing sodden or boiled
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: pottage. See also: Genesis 25:29; 2 Kings 4:39; Haggai 2:12.
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יָדָֽעוּ
yâdaʻ
H3045
"to know"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)
Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.
Study Notes — 2 Kings 4:39
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Kings 4:39 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 4:39
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 4:39
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 4:39
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 4:39
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
- Sermons on 2 Kings 4:39
Context — Elisha Purifies the Poisonous Stew
37She came in, fell at his feet, and bowed to the ground. Then she picked up her son and went out.
38When Elisha returned to Gilgal, there was a famine in the land. As the sons of the prophets were sitting at his feet, he said to his attendant, “Put on the large pot and boil some stew for the sons of the prophets.”
39One of them went out to the field to gather herbs, and he found a wild vine from which he gathered as many wild gourds as his garment could hold. Then he came back and cut them up into the pot of stew, though no one knew what they were.
40And they poured it out for the men to eat, but when they tasted the stew they cried out, “There is death in the pot, O man of God!” And they could not eat it. 41Then Elisha said, “Get some flour.” He threw it into the pot and said, “Pour it out for the people to eat.” And there was nothing harmful in the pot.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jeremiah 2:21 | I had planted you like a choice vine from the very best seed. How could you turn yourself before Me into a rotten, wild vine? |
| 2 | Isaiah 5:4 | What more could I have done for My vineyard than I already did for it? Why, when I expected sweet grapes, did it bring forth sour fruit? |
| 3 | Matthew 15:13 | But Jesus replied, “Every plant that My heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by its roots. |
| 4 | Hebrews 12:15 | See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God, and that no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble and defile many. |
2 Kings 4:39 Summary
[This verse tells us about a man who gathered wild gourds to add to a stew, not knowing they were poisonous, which teaches us to be careful and wise in our actions, just like the Bible says in Proverbs 22:3. The man's mistake could have had serious consequences, but fortunately, Elisha was able to intervene and resolve the issue, demonstrating God's power to redeem and restore, similar to other accounts in the Bible, such as Exodus 15:25. We can learn from this story by being more mindful of our actions and their potential impact on others, and by trusting in God's power to overcome any challenges we may face, as seen in Romans 8:28.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the wild gourds that the man gathered from the wild vine?
The Bible does not specifically identify the type of wild gourds, but it is clear that they were not safe for consumption, as seen in the reaction of the sons of the prophets in 2 Kings 4:40, and this reminds us of the dangers of unawareness, similar to the account in Deuteronomy 29:18 where the Israelites were warned against hidden sins.
Why did the man add the wild gourds to the stew without knowing what they were?
The man's actions were likely driven by a desire to contribute to the meal, but he lacked the knowledge or discernment to recognize the potential harm of the wild gourds, highlighting the importance of wisdom and caution, as emphasized in Proverbs 22:3.
Is this event a miracle, and if so, what is its significance?
While the primary focus of 2 Kings 4:39 is on the actions of the man gathering wild gourds, the subsequent events in 2 Kings 4:41, where Elisha resolves the issue, can be seen as a miracle, demonstrating God's power to redeem and restore, similar to other accounts in the Bible, such as Exodus 15:25 where God made bitter water sweet.
What does this verse teach us about faith and obedience?
This verse teaches us that even in uncertain situations, like the man gathering wild gourds, faith and obedience are crucial, as seen in Elisha's response to the crisis in 2 Kings 4:41, and this is consistent with the message of Hebrews 11:6, which emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I may be unknowingly adding 'wild gourds' that could cause harm, and how can I seek wisdom to avoid them?
- How can I apply the lesson of this verse to my own decision-making process, especially when faced with uncertain or unfamiliar situations?
- In what ways can I demonstrate faith and obedience in my daily life, even when the outcome is uncertain, just like Elisha did in this situation?
- What are some potential 'wild gourds' in my community or church that could be causing harm, and how can I help address them in a spirit of love and wisdom?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 4:39
And one went out into the fields to gather herbs,.... To put into the pottage, the gardens affording none in this time of dearth; or, however, being scarce, were at too great a price for the sons of
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 4:39
And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered thereof wild gourds his lap full, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage: for they knew them not.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
A wild vine; a plant called coloquintida, whose gourds or leaves resemble the leaves of a vine, and are very bitter and pernicious to the eater.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
2 Kings 4:39 And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered thereof wild gourds his lap full, and came and shred [them] into the pot of pottage: for they knew [them] not.Ver. 39. Of wild gourds his lapful] This is taken to be coloquintida, which is very bitter, saith Valesius, so that physicians call it Fel terrae, the gall of the earth. De Sac. Plalos., cap. 36.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
(39) Herbs.—A rare word. (See Isaiah 26:19.) The Targum renders “greens.” The LXX. retains the Hebrew word; the Syriac and Arabic render “mallows.” Thenius thinks that αριωθ, the reading of the LXX., points to another word derived from a different root, and meaning “to pluck,” so that the word would denote legumina. A wild vine.—Vulg., “quasi vitem silvestrem,” i.e., a running plant, like a vine. Wild gourds.—In 1 Kings 6:18 a related word is used to describe one of the decorations of the Temple (“knops”). Wild gourds, or cucumbers (cucumeres agrestes, or asinini), are oval in shape, and taste bitter. Their Hebrew name (paqqϋ‘τth) is expressive of the fact that when ripe they are apt to burst upon being touched. If eaten they act as a violent purgative. They were mistaken on the present occasion for edible gourds, a favourite food of the people (Numbers 11:5). The Vulg. renders “colocynth,” or coloquintida, a plant of the same family, bearing large orange-like fruits, which are very bitter, and cause colic (cucumis colocynthi, L.). Keil supposes this to be the “wild vine” intended.
They knew them not.—And so did not stop the young man from his shredding.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
Verse 39. Wild gourds] This is generally thought to be the coloquintida, the fruit of a plant of the same name, about the size of a large orange. It is brought hither from the Levant, and is often known by the name of the bitter apple; both the seeds and pulp are intensely bitter, and violently purgative. It ranks among vegetable poisons, as all intense bitters do; but, judiciously employed, it is of considerable use in medicine.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 4:39
39. And one went out] As the needful services were performed by the members of the college among themselves, it was no doubt one of them who went into the field to gather such herbs as he could find. a wild vine] i.e. some wild plant with vine-like tendrils, named here ‘vine’ for want of knowledge of its true name. The colocynth has tendrils after the fashion of the wild bryony in our hedgerows. wild gourds] The Hebrew word is explained as meaning ‘wild cucumber’, an egg-shaped fruit with very bitter taste. But the prickly fruit of this plant could hardly be thought fit for pottage. Others think that the ‘colocynth’ is meant, and this was the opinion of the LXX., which renders by τολυπὴἀγρία, ‘wild pumpkin’. This fruit might be mistaken for a melon. for they knew them not] Nobody among the brotherhood had sufficient skill of plants to stop their comrade, and tell him the noxious nature of the herb he had brought home.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 4:39
A wild vine - Not a real wild vine, the fruit of which, if not very palatable, is harmless; but some climbing plant with tendrils.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:39
39. Herbs — ΰψϊ, oroth. “This noun is derived from ΰεψ, in the signification to shine, glitter, so far as verbs of shining are also applied metaphorically to blossoming, sprouting, ripening.” — Furst.
Sermons on 2 Kings 4:39
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Wild Donkeys by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the need for deliverance from the spirit of a wild donkey, which represents lust and sinful desires. He emphasizes the importance of repentan |
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The Heavenly Calling - Part 15 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the preacher begins by asking a rhetorical question about the usefulness of a vine branch from the forest. He emphasizes that the branch is only fit for fuel and ca |
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Wild Donkeys by David Ravenhill | David Ravenhill passionately addresses the struggles of Christians with overpowering lust and sinful habits in his sermon 'Wild Donkeys.' He emphasizes the importance of recognizin |
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It Began With Repentance by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson emphasizes that the church's foundation was built on repentance, as seen during Peter's sermon at Pentecost, which united believers in love and evangelism. However, |
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Bearing Fruit - Part 2 by Keith Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the importance of bearing fruit in one's spiritual life, highlighting God's grief over unfruitful branches and the consequences of not producing fruit. It de |
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(Radical Jesus) 21 Radical Passion by Glenn Meldrum | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the radical love and compassion of God towards sinful people. He highlights how Jesus showed compassion to various individuals, such as heal |
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Do What You Can by Robert Murray M'Cheyne | Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the importance of active faith through the example of Mary, sister of Lazarus, who not only sat at Jesus' feet but also took action by anointing H |