“Opposite the mountain” (Exodus 19:2)
Why was the Torah given on a mountain? Both a mountain and a plain come from the earth, but the mountain is elevated. The intent of giving the Torah was that the Children of Israel would refine and elevate the material world. This is hinted at in the word “mountain,” which is earth, yet it is high – symbolizing the elevation and refinement of matter.
(the Rebbe Rayatz)
Self-Nullification and Awe
The thunder and flames at the giving of the Torah were meant to elevate the children of Israel to the highest level of self-nullification and awe before the Holy One, blessed be He, as it is stated (Exodus 20:17): “In order that His awe shall be upon your faces.”
(the Alter Rebbe)
Elevation, Not Arrogance
The Torah was given on a mountain to teach that Torah study and walking in the ways of G-d should create an elevation of the heart within a person. At the same time, one must be extremely careful not to let this elevation turn into arrogance.
(the Rebbe Rayatz)
“And the entire Mount Sinai smoked” (Exodus 19:18).
The Hebrew word “ashan” (smoke) is an acronym for the Hebrew words olam (world), shanah (year), and nefesh (soul), which together constitute the existence of the world: olam—space; shanah—time; and nefesh—life-force. At Mount Sinai we were given the ability to refine and elevate space and time and to infuse them with Divine light and vitality.
(the Alter Rebbe)
