Parshat Matot

3 myths

Laws of vows, the war against Midian, and the settlement of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh east of the Jordan. Numbers 30:2-32:42.
Parshat Matot 5 min

Reuben and Gad Listed Their Cattle Before Their Children

Two tribes asked Moses for land east of the Jordan and listed sheepfolds before their children. Moses corrected the order without raising his voice.

ReubenGadMosesJordanTribesCattleConquestNumbersGinzbergTargum
Parshat Matot 4 min

Jephthah and Phinehas, a Tragedy of Two Proud Men

One had a vow he could not undo. The other had the authority to undo it. Neither would take the first step toward the other, and a girl died for their dignity.

JephthahPhinehasJudgesPrideHumilityWomen
Parshat Matot 6 min

The Outcast Judge Who Rose Among the Heavenly Host

Driven out as a bastard, Jephthah won Israel and lost his daughter to a vow, and his scattered body climbed toward the company of heaven.

JephthahJudgesPrideVowsAfterlifePhinehasExile