Editing Matan Torah (section)

== Preparation for the Event ==

===== Selection of the Mountain =====
The Midrash tells that there was a dispute between the mountains about which one would be chosen for Hashem to give the Torah. Each mountain advocated for its own merits. Ultimately, Hashem decided to give the Torah specifically on the lowest mountain - Har Sinai.

The Rebbe explains this decision: The purpose of Matan Torah was to connect two opposites - to have gashmius but to transform gashmius into ruchnius. Har Sinai symbolizes these two opposites: on one hand it is a mountain, and on the other hand it is the lowest mountain.

In Torah learning, one needs to combine two opposites: On one hand, learning with hisnasus - fulfilling the Shulchan Aruch's command to "not be embarrassed by mockers," and on the other hand learning with bitul, since regarding gaavah it is said "I [Hashem] and he cannot dwell together."

===== Naaseh V'Nishma =====
When Hashem came to give the Torah to Bnei Yisrael, all of Bnei Yisrael declared as one "Naaseh V'Nishma." This declaration became a symbol of kabbalas ol and dedication to Hashem's will. The Rebbe explains that this declaration and kabbalas ol was a preparation and condition for kabbalas haTorah. Even though saying "Nishma" seemingly detracts from kabbalas ol, the perfection of avodah in keeping Torah and mitzvos includes, in addition to "Naaseh" (kabbalas ol), that a person should understand and feel in their sechel and midos the good, importance, and necessity of Torah and mitzvos (Nishma).

===== The Guarantors =====
The Midrash relates that when Hashem wanted to give Bnei Yisrael the Torah, He requested guarantors that the Yidden would keep the Torah. The Yidden said: "Our holy fathers - they will be our guarantors," but Hashem did not accept this answer. The Yidden then said: "Our prophets will be our guarantors." But Hashem did not accept this answer either. Then the Yidden said: "Our children will be our guarantors." When Hashem heard this answer, it found favor in His eyes, and He gave the Yidden the Torah.