Metaphysical meaning of Mahanaim (mbd)
Mahanaim, ma-ha-na'-im (Heb.)--two camps; two hosts; encampments; armies; hosts.
a The place where the angels of God met Jacob when he was on his way to meet and be reconciled to his brother Esau (Gen. 32:1,2). b A place in Israel from which Ahinadab was to gather provisions for Solomon's household for one month in each year (I Kings 4:14).
Meta. Mahanaim, in individual consciousness, pertains to spiritual ideas and the mental realm of man--two hosts.
This significance is brought out very clearly in the naming of the place by Jacob: "And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. And Jacob said when he saw them, This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim" ("That is, Two hosts, or, Companies," margin). These refer to the angels of God (representing spiritual ideas) and to Jacob and his company, his wives, children, and possessions (signifying the mentality of man). Esau, to whom Jacob was going, symbolizes the body.
By means of thinking we get into conscious touch with Spirit so that we may receive and appropriate the ideas of substance and life--spiritual food--that become the very life and substance of the whole organism. Thus we are truly fed, since through our thoughts we also make conscious union with our body and declare Truth for it.
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Preceding Entry: Mahalath
Following Entry: Mahaneh-dan
