R'Dessler one of the greatest Jewish thinkers of the last generation, asked an interesting question. The revelation of the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai was the greatest revelation of G-d to mankind. G-d commanded the Jewish People to distance themselves from the mountain and not to go up or touch the mountain during the revelation. As soon as the revelation was over and the shofar was blown, the mountain didn't retain any sanctity and all were permitted to ascend the mountain. In contrast, the Holy Temple which was constructed by man retains it sanctity to this very day. Even after its destruction it is still forbidden to enter the Temple Mount. Obviously there was a revelation of G-d in the Holy Temple but it didn't parallel the greatest revelation of history which was at Mount Sinai. If so why should the sanctity leave the Mount Sinai but stay in regards to the Temple Mount?

The revelation of Mount Sinai was Hashem's revelation to man, which man was totally passive in receiving this revelation. The Holy Temple was constructed by man and man performed the temple service there on a daily basis. The spiritual levels which are given to us as a gift may be passing and as the inspiration leaves so does the sanctity. When we perform mitzvoth and service to Hashem, through our actions we draw down the sanctity. When the sanctity is created through our actions it leaves a lasting impression. All of the good deeds we perform are everlasting.

Shabbat Shalom,

Heath