How should the table in the Temple be viewed by those who came to visit the Temple on festivals? The Gemara reminds us of the book of Yechezkel (41:22): "the altar, three cubits high, and the length of two cubits, was wood including its corners, length and walls. It was said, "This is the table that is before the Lord". Even though the table was seen as golden, it was viewed as a wooden utensil.
Why did the description of the table begin with talk about the altar? Rabbi Yochanan and Rabbi Elazar teach that the altar was the place of atonement while the Temple stood. After the Temple was destroyed, the table served that same role.
Steinsaltz tells us about Rashi's commentary. When we welcome guests to our table, that generosity and compassion is an offering of atonement. The Maharsha says that this refers to one who limits his/her food for the sake of heaven; in memorial to the destruction of the Temple. Others teach that it is the words of Torah shared at a meal that turn the table into an altar offering atonement.
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