ויחנו במדבר” and they encamped in the desert”: Why di Hashem chose to give the Thora specifically in the desert? The Kli Yakar answers the reason the  Torah was given openly, in a public place, as for if it were given in Eretz Yisrael, they could say to the nations of the world: You have no portion in it. But it was given openly, in a public place, so anyone who wants to take it may come and take it. That’s the reason why it wasn’t given at night; as it is written (Ibid. 19:16) “And it was on the third day, when it was morning, etc.”, so all the nations can see the grandeur of the Thora and accept it. That’s the reason it was also not given in silence, as it is written (Ibid.) “and there were thunders and lightning.”, so the whole entire world could witness the justice of its commandments. I might think that they did not hear the thunders; it is, therefore, written (Ibid. 20:15) “And all the people saw the thunders and the lightning,” and (Psalms 29:4) “the voice of Hashem in majesty, etc.” Even the wicked Bilam had to admit of the glory of the Thora and therefore said to all those standing with him (Ibid. 11) [ד’ עוז לעמו יתן] said “Hashem will give strength to His people,” and they all responded (Ibid.) “Hashem will bless His people in peace. [ד’ יברך את עמו בשלום]” as Thora brings strength and peace.  

By Rabbi Shimon Friedman – Din Torah Of NMB, FL 305.399.0393 / [email protected]