שמואל ב, פרק י״ז, פסוק י״ז

King David's intelligence network operated in strict secrecy, relying on careful coordination and outside contacts to pass critical information without raising suspicion. The designated messengers, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, positioned themselves at a location known as Ein Rogel, situated just outside Jerusalem. The name of this location was tied to its everyday use. Based on early translations, [רש י ורד״ק] explain that it was a spring used by wool launderers. The workers would wash and clean the heavy garments by vigorously rubbing, beating, and treading on them with their feet, which gave the site its name, rooted in the word for foot.

To maintain their cover, the messengers needed someone from inside the city to bring them the latest updates. A maidservant from the household of Zadok served as this vital link. She discreetly left Jerusalem and made her way to the spring to deliver the intelligence regarding Hushai's counsel. The commentators agree on the absolute necessity of her role. Jonathan and Ahimaaz were forced to hide and wait outside the city limits because their presence inside Jerusalem would have immediately attracted attention. Entering the city would have exposed their mission and raised suspicion among their enemies. By having the maidservant slip out to them in secret, the chain of communication remained unbroken. Once they received the message at the spring, the two men could safely continue their journey to deliver the crucial information to King David.