The angels of God, &c.— When Jacob embarked in this enterprize, and left Canaan, God was pleased to encourage him by a vision of angels, and by the assurance of his protection: and now that he was returning, happily escaped from Laban, but with good reason afraid of Esau, another vision of the celestial messengers is presented to him. From the vision of the angelical powers, he called the place, by a military name, referring to the idea of hosts or armies, Mahanaim, or camps, which is not a dual, but a plural word; and therefore all that has been said of two camps, is built upon a mistake, Psalms 34:7. Mahanaim was situated between Mount Gilead and the brook Jabbok: it was afterwards one of the residences of the Levites, and one of the strong places of David.
REFLECTIONS.—God hath preserved the patriarch hitherto, and still continues to guard him safe home. He had the promise of protection, and he trusted in it: now he has the sight of his angelic convoy, and may be comforted. Who can hurt them to whom angels minister? And need there was of every support; for his part dangers were only the prelude of greater impending. God thus prepares his people by strong consolations for difficult services. Note; When the believer draws near his last conflict in death, then shall these attendant spirits surround the dying bed, to welcome the departing soul, and lodge it safe in the bosom of Jesus.*
[* The lines of our ancient poet on the ministration of angels to the heirs of glory, are so suitable to the present subject, and so extremely beautiful, that I cannot forbear inserting them.
And is there care in heaven? And is there love In heavenly spirits to these creatures base, That may compassion of their evils move? There is: else much more wretched were the case Of men than beasts. But O! th' exceeding grace Of highest God that loves his creatures so, And all his works with mercy doth embrace, That blessed Angels he sends to and fro To serve to wicked man, to serve his wicked foe!
How do they their silver bowers leave To come to succour us that succour want? How oft do they with golden pinions cleave The flitting skies, like flying Pursuivant, Against foul fiends to aid us militant? They for us fight, they watch and duly ward, And their bright Squadrons round about us plant; And all for love, and nothing for reward: O why should heavenly God to men have such regard!]