The fact that this event is taking place close to the holiday
of matan Torah, during which am Yisroel
encamped opposite the mountain and, in acceptance of the yoke
of Shomayim, called out na'ase venishma, has
special meaning for us now. Klal Yisroel is virtually
one body, and one must be linked to the root of klal
Yisroel. Whoever is here, among this kahal kodosh,
is aware of the urgent responsibility, in the light of the
call of maranan verabonon, and knows that there is
much significance to a gathering of all Yisroel -- shivtei
Yisroel -- at an assembly attended by the heads of the
Nation -- roshei am.
There are special days which are sacred for all of Israel,
because we are, in essence, one root. Any Jew who does not
accept ol malchus Shomayim, chas vesholom, requires
strengthening. We have gathered here with one heart in order
to be strengthened. When one does Hashem's will, one
assembles to be strengthened with one heart. If we strengthen
ourselves to the utmost of our ability, we will sanctify
Shem Shomayim, and proliferate kevod Shomayim.
When we vote, try to influence and to spread kevod
Shomayim and to assemble with one heart from the depths
of the heart, the influence [of our deeds] will extend
further and further, to include those who are distant.
If we resolve with one heart and from the depths of our
hearts to heed the words of gedolei Yisroel to
strengthen Klal Yisroel, then we will strengthen those
who are distant and we will all "do and listen" and will then
merit to see the fulfillment of the verse, "venigleh kevod
Hashem -- and Hashem's glory will be revealed."ý
