282. Rabbi Yitzchak opened the discussion saying: "While the king was reclining at his board, my nard sent forth its fragrance" (Shir Hashirim 1:12). "While the king," refers to the Holy One, blessed be He, as is written, "Thus says Hashem, the King of Yisrael" (Yeshayah 44:6), and, "And he was King in Yeshurun" (Devarim 33:5). "While the King was reclining at his board," MEANS between the wings of Cherubs THAT WERE ON THE ARK OF THE TESTIMONY. "My nard gave forth its fragrance," MEANS THEY CAUSED THE HOLY ONE, BLESSED BE HE, to depart from among them, AND "GIVES FORTH ITS FRAGRANCE" MEANS THEIR BAD ODOR!