Kiddush in Beis Haknesses. Part 1

Growing up in Washington Heights we were  given the privilege to receive Kiddush wine Friday night and after Shabbos each week. We would then mosey on over to the Rav for benching.  

As the Chazan made Kiddush the entire shul was quiet. The entire Shul also stood for this. Even those who remained seated for much of the Davening, would stand for Kiddush. It is actually the Halacha to do so,  the reason given in the name of the Sefer Kol Bo, is that this will strengthen a person's feet.  

Now, I do not doubt that this Segulah works, but it does not explain WHY we should stand. 

 I always assumed that the source is the Mishna in Bikurim which describes the obligation upon all the residents of Jerusalem to stand as the Bikurim procession came through the streets. The reason is to show Kavod to someone who performs a Mitzvah. If people do good things and receive no recognition- to the contrary, people ignore them, they will not be motivated to continue this. The person standing, likewise, impresses upon himself that a Mitzvah is important. 

I want to relate the following story that I witnessed in my first year learning at the Lakewood Yeshivah in 1997. 

 There was a panel of people who came to survey the Yeshiva. I don't remember if it was a state visit or the Board of Jewish Education which provides funds through the UJA and other charities. 

One of the panelists was not Jewish. The panel were invited to witness Shiur Klali which is given in the large Bais Hamidrash, and while many opt to skip it, the room was full that day. As Rav Malkiel entered the room from the back, the entire Yeshivah rose to their feet. The panelist rose as well and, it was later related, was moved by the site of students standing for their teacher, a practice that went out  with the fifties. Standing up out of respect has been relegated to Judges in courtrooms. "All rise!" 

Excellent article about standing for a Mitzvah Here: קימה בפני עושי מצוה – עולמות https://share.google/xFDHAoAFJ6caUw6fG