Midrash Tehillim, a collection of homiletic interpretations on the Book of Psalms, offers some fascinating perspectives on this very question, particularly in its treatment of Psalm 18. It paints a picture of God's might that's both awe-inspiring and surprisingly… intimate.

The Midrash opens with the phrase, "Manoah's adversaries passed away. When the wind subsides and the sun rises, his adversaries passed away." This sets a tone of effortless victory. No struggle, no drawn-out battle scenes – just… passing away. It’s almost casual, isn’t it?

Rabbi Yudan, quoting Rabbi Abba, then brings us to a pivotal moment: the parting of the Red Sea. Remember that scene in Exodus? The Egyptians are bearing down on the Israelites, trapped between the sea and their pursuers. According to this Midrash, when God came to wage war on the Egyptians at the sea, the ministering angels rushed to assist Him. Imagine! Angels armed with swords, bows, and spears, eager to join the fray.

But here’s the kicker. God says, "I do not need weapons from you at this hour. My adversaries have passed away."

Wow.

Think about that for a moment. The implication is clear: God's power is so absolute that even the mightiest angelic armies aren't necessary. He is sufficient. It's a statement of supreme sovereignty.

Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi elaborates on this idea with a compelling analogy. He contrasts a mortal king with the King of Kings. A human king, "who is flesh and blood," takes his entire army to war. But when he's just going for a stroll, he only brings his personal guard.

God, however, is different. "When He goes out to war, He goes alone, as it is said, 'The Lord is a man of war, the Lord is His name' (Exodus 15:3)." This verse, of course, is part of the Song of the Sea, celebrating the Israelite's miraculous escape from Egypt.

But when God goes out "for His own pleasure to give the Torah," as Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi continues, we see a very different picture. "The chariots of God are myriads, thousands upon thousands" (Psalm 68:18). And, "The Lord God will come with all the holy ones with you" (Zechariah 14:5).

So, what's the takeaway? Is God a lone warrior, or a king surrounded by a heavenly host?

Perhaps the point isn't about literal warfare or parades. Maybe it's about understanding the multifaceted nature of the Divine. When facing injustice and oppression, God acts decisively, powerfully, and if necessary, alone. But when offering guidance, revelation, and connection (as with the giving of the Torah at Sinai), God is surrounded by love, support, and countless blessings, symbolized by the myriads of angels.

This Midrash reminds us that God's power isn't just about brute force. It's about knowing when to act with decisive authority and when to shower us with boundless love and support. It’s a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are never truly alone. And perhaps, just perhaps, that’s the most comforting thought of all.