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Why did Hashem (ה׳) speak the Aseres Hadibros simultaneously when no one could understand? Maamad Har Sinai was primarily about hearing Hashem's voice—establishing a relationship—not receiving commandments. The first utterance created a connection like creation itself; only afterward did Hashem repeat the dibros to convey specific mitzvos.
Rabbi Zweig presents a revolutionary understanding of Maamad Har Sinai based on a careful analysis of Rashi (רש"י). The central puzzle is why Hashem (ה׳) performed a seemingly purposeless miracle: speaking all ten commandments simultaneously when it was impossible for anyone to understand them. Rashi states clearly that Hashem made a miracle that ten things were said at once, but does not say He made a corresponding miracle that they could be heard simultaneously. This contrasts with "Anochi" and "Lo yihyeh lecha," which were both spoken and heard simultaneously (mipi hagvurah shamanu). The key insight is that Maamad Har Sinai was not primarily about receiving the 613 mitzvos, but about hearing the Kol Hashem—Hashem's voice itself. Voice creates connection in a way that words alone cannot. Just as a child becomes homesick from hearing a parent's voice on the phone (even without words of endearment), the voice conveys the essence of relationship and intimacy. When Hashem revealed His innermost wisdom—the Torah (תורה), which the Midrash calls His daughter—the voice itself communicated His essence. The Gemara (גמרא) in Shabbos (שבת) states that "Anochi" is an acronym for "Ana nafshi k'tavis y'havis"—I wrote and gave Myself to you.
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Parshas Yisro (Shemos 19-20), Aseres Hadibros
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What is the primary purpose of the cities of refuge - protecting the accidental killer or something else? The shiur argues that creating respect for law takes precedence over providing sanctuary. True deterrence comes from recognizing the gravity of murder itself, not fear of punishment.
