ישעיהו, פרק כ״ד, פסוק ט׳

The festive atmosphere of grand banquets often relies on the pairing of wine and music, but in times of deep grief, these symbols of joy completely lose their power. The primary approach among commentators is that the traditional custom of enjoying wine alongside cheerful melodies is entirely shattered [רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. The silence extends beyond the absence of musical instruments; even vocal singing ceases completely, replaced only by heavy sighs [מלבי״ם, רד״ק]. Any wine consumed in this new reality is no longer drunk for pleasure. Instead, it is taken out of sheer necessity [אבן עזרא], as people drink only in an attempt to dull their mourning, pain, and the deep bitterness of their souls [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ, מלבי״ם].

Even old, highly intoxicating wine, which is typically meant to lift spirits and bring happiness [מצודת ציון, מלבי ם באור המילות], fails to brighten the faces of those who consume it. Because of the overwhelming troubles surrounding them, the drink itself literally tastes bitter in their mouths [אבן עזרא, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, מלבי ם באור המילות]. Beyond the general theme of lost joy, this sudden shift from celebration to despair is also linked to a specific historical event. It reflects the grand feast held by the people of Babylon, which turned instantly to bitterness when their city was unexpectedly captured right in the middle of their celebration [שד״ל].