Amidst a chaotic retreat and relentless pursuit, the men of the tribe of Benjamin suddenly halt their flight to reorganize for battle. Realizing that David's men are chasing them with the specific intent of killing their leader, Abner, the Benjaminites rally to save him from Joab and Abishai [מצודת דוד, אברבנאל]. The urgency of the situation prompts even those fighters who had already fled further ahead to retrace their steps and gather firmly behind their commander [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
This renewed preparation for combat is executed through two deliberate strategic moves [מלבי״ם]. First, the men cease their scattered retreat and unite into a single, cohesive faction [מצודת ציון]. Their formation is incredibly tight, as if the warriors are physically tied and bound to one another [רד״ק]. Second, they secure a high position atop a hill [מצודת ציון]. This elevated location provides them with a crucial tactical advantage, making it significantly easier to fight back and secure a victory [מלבי״ם].