The Torah parsha Matos begins with Hashem's instruction to Moshe regarding milchemes Midyan, a war against Midyan. This command seemed peculiar, as there were nations more threatening, yet Hashem prioritized Midyan. The Rebbe explains that this teaches us about discerning priorities in spiritual warfare.
Moshe Rabbeinu receives direct orders from Hashem, indicating that our soul must receive divine guidance to differentiate between important and less important battles. The war against Midyan represents a deeper struggle against traits that entice a person into wrongdoing.
The Rebbe elaborates on the concept of both external and internal wars. External wars relate to physical or material challenges, whereas internal wars are about overcoming one's own negative traits and desires, such as arrogance and anger.
Moshe sends only one thousand from each tribe to battle Midyan. This symbolizes that every Jew has the inherent power for spiritual battle through connecting closely with Torah and mitzvos, which provide the necessary guidance.
The result of the war against Midyan was decisive victory without any Israelite casualties. This outcome exemplifies how true spiritual alignment with Hashem's will leads to success without incurring harm to one's spiritual integrity.
Moreover, the spoils taken from Midyan were purified before entering Jewish use, illustrating the need for refinement and transformation when engaging with worldly matters.
This transformation process reflects the overall task of elevating mundane aspects by imbuing them with holiness through mindful observance of mitzvos and Torah study.