Parashat Mattot – Summary

Parashat Mattot covers the laws of vows, the war against Midyan and the settlement of the tribes of Reuven, Gad, and half of Menasheh.
Women's Vows – Chapter 30 outlines the laws of vows and their annulment for married and unmarried women.
War against Midyan – In Chapter 31, the Children of Israel wage war against Midyan as retribution for their earlier incitement of Israel to sin. After the war, Moshe instructs the nation regarding ritual purification of defiled individuals and vessels, and division of the spoils among the soldiers and nation.
Settlement of Transjordan – In Chapter 32, the tribes of Reuven and Gad request permission to settle the lands of Sichon and Og on the eastern side of the Jordan River. After initial opposition, Moshe grants them and half of the tribe of Menasheh, rights to these lands, on condition that form the vanguard of the military campaign to conquer the Land of Israel.

Parashat Mattot/ParashahSummary