דברי הימים א, פרק י״ד, פסוק ט״ו

Divine intervention in the battle against the Philistines takes the form of a precise, miraculous sign meant to guide the Israelite army. The troops are instructed to wait patiently until they hear a distinct sound of marching, specifically the noise of human footsteps [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Unnaturally, this sound will echo from the tops of the trees. Only when this specific noise is heard in the treetops are the soldiers permitted to launch their attack [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The appearance of this sound serves as a clear message that God has gone out ahead of the army. It indicates that He is sending His angel to strike the enemy camp and secure the victory [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This specific strategy raises a natural question regarding why God requires such precise tactics and a strict waiting period. After all, His power is unlimited, and He could easily deliver salvation through any means. The underlying purpose of this delay is to test David. It serves to reveal whether the king will strictly follow God's commands regarding the conduct of the war, or if he will treat them lightly, just as King Saul had done before him [מצודת דוד].