יחזקאל, פרק כ׳, פסוק ל׳

After a historical review of past failures, the prophetic message shifts its focus to the actions of the current generation. Specifically, the warning is directed at the people who still remained in the Land of Israel at that time [רד״ק].

The primary approach among commentators is that God addresses the nation with a rhetorical question filled with astonishment and rebuke. He challenges the logic of their behavior, asking how they can continue a life of sin while simultaneously turning to Him and expecting Him to answer their requests. The phrasing of the question highlights God's deep wonder at their actions [רש״י, מלבי״ם].

The prophet reprimands the people for walking in the corrupt paths of their ancestors and imitating their wrongdoings [מצודת דוד, אברבנאל]. They are drawn to the same idol worship that plagued previous generations. This spiritual betrayal is compared to an unfaithful wife who betrays her husband [מצודת דוד]. Because their behavior is a direct continuation of past abominations, the prophet makes it clear that there is no justification for God to answer their prayers [אברבנאל].