יחזקאל, פרק כ״ג, פסוק מ״א

A lavish banquet held for foreign lovers serves as a sharp metaphor for the nation's betrayal of God. The people invite foreign nations into their midst to learn their corrupt practices, showering them with great honor and deep affection. The preparations for this gathering begin with the arrangement of a highly respected and expensive bed [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ], beautifully decorated with fine, elegant linens [רש״י, רד״ק].

In front of this bed sits a table, prepared in advance and filled with a variety of fine foods [מצודת ציון, רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. Placing the table directly before the bed reflects the ancient custom of reclining while eating [רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. Together, the bed and the table are designed to welcome the arrivals and offer them exceptional hospitality [מלבי״ם]. Additionally, one perspective notes that the bed itself functioned as a site of worship dedicated to astrology and false gods [רד״ק].

Following this feast of betrayal, fragrant incense and anointing oil are brought out [מצודת ציון]. This mirrors the cultural practice of burning spices over coals and anointing oneself with fine oil at the conclusion of a meal to spread a pleasant scent and enjoy the moment [רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. While some commentators suggest these items were placed on the table [מצודת דוד], others explain that they were set directly upon the bed of adultery itself [רד״ק, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The ultimate sting of this rebuke lies in the origin of these luxury items. God cries out against the nation's deep ingratitude, as the very abundance, spices, and oil that He personally gifted to them are taken and offered as tribute to foreign nations and their idols [רד״ק, מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].