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.
Went out into the field to gather herbs. Wild herbs are very extensively used by people in the East, even by those who possess kitchen-gardens. The fields are daily searched for mallows, asparagus, and other wild plants.
Wild vine, х gepen (H1612) saadeh (H7704)] - 'vine of the field;' supposed to be the colo-cynth, a cucumber which, in its leaves, tendrils, and fruit, bears a strong resemblance to the wild vine. The 'gourds,' or fruit, are of the colour and size of an orange, bitter to the taste, causing colic, and exciting the nerves; largely eaten, they would occasion such a derangement of the stomach and bowels as to be followed by death. The meal which Elisha poured into the pot was a symbolic sign that the noxious quality of the herbs was removed.
Lap-full. The hyke, or large cloak or plaid, is thrown loosely over the left shoulder, and fastened under the right arm, so as to form a lap or apron.