Colocynths, also known as Citrullus colocynthis, are a plant species mentioned in the Bible, primarily recognized for their bitter fruit. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia and Africa. It is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cucumbers and melons. The colocynth is characterized by its round, gourd-like fruit, which is extremely bitter and toxic if consumed in large quantities.

Biblical References:

The most notable mention of colocynths in the Bible is found in 2 Kings 4:38-41. In this passage, the prophet Elisha encounters a group of prophets during a time of famine. One of the men goes out to gather herbs and unknowingly collects wild gourds, which are later identified as colocynths. When these gourds are added to the pot of stew, the men cry out, "There is death in the pot!" Elisha then instructs them to bring flour, which he throws into the pot, rendering the stew harmless. This miraculous event demonstrates God's provision and protection through His prophet Elisha.

2 Kings 4:38-41 : "When Elisha returned to Gilgal, there was a famine in the land. As the sons of the prophets were sitting before him, he said to his servant, 'Put on the large pot and cook some stew for these men.' One of them went out into the field to gather herbs and found a wild vine from which he picked as many wild gourds as his garment would hold. Then he came back and cut them into the pot of stew, though no one knew what they were. And 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. Then Elisha said, 'Get some flour.' He put it into the pot and said, 'Pour it out for the people to eat.' And there was nothing harmful in the pot."

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient times, the colocynth was known for its medicinal properties, despite its toxicity. It was used in small doses as a purgative or laxative. However, due to its bitter taste and potential for harm, it was not commonly consumed as food. The incident in 2 Kings highlights the dangers of misidentifying plants in the wild, especially during times of scarcity when desperation might lead to the consumption of unfamiliar or unsafe foods.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

The account of the colocynths in 2 Kings serves as a powerful illustration of God's intervention and the importance of discernment. The presence of "death in the pot" symbolizes the spiritual and physical dangers that can arise from ignorance or lack of wisdom. Elisha's miraculous purification of the stew signifies God's ability to transform and redeem situations that seem hopeless or harmful. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to seek His guidance in all circumstances.

Botanical Characteristics:

The colocynth plant is a perennial herbaceous vine, thriving in arid and semi-arid climates. It has a sprawling growth habit with deeply lobed leaves and yellow flowers. The fruit is typically the size of an orange, with a hard outer rind and a spongy, bitter pulp. Despite its unpalatable nature, the colocynth is well-adapted to harsh environments, reflecting resilience and survival in challenging conditions.

In summary, colocynths in the biblical context serve as a reminder of the potential dangers in the natural world and the necessity of divine wisdom and intervention. The account of Elisha and the poisoned stew underscores the themes of faith, providence, and the transformative power of God.Colocynths (3 Occurrences)

1 Kings 6:18
And the cedar of the house within was carved with colocynths and half-open flowers: all was cedar; there was no stone seen.
(DBY)

1 Kings 7:24
And under the brim of it round about there were colocynths, encompassing it, ten in a cubit enclosing the sea round about; two rows of colocynths, cast when it was cast.
(DBY)

2 Kings 4:39
Then one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered from it his lap full of wild colocynths, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage; for they did not know them.
(DBY)

Colocynths (3 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Colocynths (3 Occurrences). 1 Kings 6:18 And the
cedar of the house within was carved with colocynths and ...
/c/colocynths.htm - 7k

Encompassing (6 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:24 And under the brim of it round about there were colocynths, encompassing
it, ten in a cubit enclosing the sea round about; two rows of colocynths...
/e/encompassing.htm - 8k

Enclosing (3 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:24 And under the brim of it round about there were colocynths, encompassing
it, ten in a cubit enclosing the sea round about; two rows of colocynths...
/e/enclosing.htm - 7k

Colonize (1 Occurrence)

/c/colonize.htm - 6k

Collops (1 Occurrence)

/c/collops.htm - 6k

Half-open (4 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 6:18 And the cedar of the house within was carved with colocynths and
half-open flowers: all was cedar; there was no stone seen. (DBY). ...
/h/half-open.htm - 7k

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