The Or Hachaim questions the apparent redundancy in mentioning from where the Bnei Yisrael departed. Is it not obvious that since Moshe had assembled Bnei Yisrael for a specific purpose, upon completion of his speech they would leave from “before Moshe”? The Alter of Kelm Z”l answers this question insightfully. When Bnei Yisrael left Moshe’s study hall after listening to a lecture from their great teacher, it was apparent from where they had come, and from whom they had heard words of Torah. Moshe’s students did not reflect his teaching only in his presence. Their essence was permeated by their Rebbe’s Torah. Thus even upon departure they mirrored his influence. Hence, the Torah emphasizes their place of spiritual sustenance, for it was obvious that they had been coming from before Moshe. They conducted themselves as if they were still in Moshe’s presence. One who studies Torah should always portray the image of a Ben Torah. The character development and refinement which are direct benefits of Torah study should be manifest in every activity of a Ben Torah wherever he may be.
