שמואל ב, פרק ה׳, פסוק י״ח

David's advance toward the Philistine borders triggers a swift military reaction. In response to his growing proximity, the Philistine army mobilizes and takes up a strategic position in the Valley of Rephaim, located just outside Jerusalem [מלבי״ם].

Instead of gathering in a single concentrated camp, the soldiers scatter and spread widely across the entire region. This expansive deployment of forces is highly intentional. It indicates that the Philistines plan to remain in the valley for an extended period, perhaps even preparing to lay siege to the area [ביאור שטיינזלץ].