דברי הימים א, פרק י״א, פסוק ט״ז

Following the defeat of the Israelites at Mount Gilboa and the death of Saul, the Philistines expanded their territory deep into the borders of Judah, successfully capturing the city of Bethlehem [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This era marked the early days of David's reign, a time when the Israelites still endured oppressive Philistine rule, continuing a difficult reality that had persisted since the days of Samson and Samuel [רש״י].

During this turbulent period, David sought refuge in a stronghold, taking shelter at the rock adjacent to the cave of Adullam [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Meanwhile, Bethlehem was firmly under foreign occupation. An appointed official, acting as a governor or judge, was stationed in the city by the Philistines to maintain strict control over the area and its surrounding regions [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רלב״ג].

This governor was protected by a dedicated military garrison stationed alongside him [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Furthermore, a large Philistine military camp was entrenched in the nearby Valley of Rephaim, completely cutting off normal access to Bethlehem. Because of this overwhelming military presence, it was impossible for anyone to approach the water well near the city gates without navigating directly through the hostile enemy camp [רלב״ג].