שמואל ב, פרק ט״ו, פסוק כ״ח

David coordinates a careful retreat, balancing his escape with the need for crucial information from inside the capital. He instructs his loyalists to remain behind in the city to act as informants. While they gather intelligence, David plans to pause his flight and wait in a holding position outside the city [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

There are two perspectives regarding the exact location of this encampment [מנחת שי, רד״ק]. The most likely scenario places David in the flat, open desert plains [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ, רד״ק]. Another understanding suggests he intends to wait just across the Kidron stream [רד״ק].

He will stay in this temporary location until he receives a clear and certain report about the unfolding events [מצודת דוד]. This vital update is to be delivered by the swift, young sons of his loyalists, who will be sent out from the city to keep the king informed [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].