שמואל א, פרק י״ד, פסוק י״ז

A sudden, chaotic uproar in the Philistine camp prompts immediate suspicion from Saul that someone from his own ranks is involved [אברבנאל]. Seeking to understand the cause of this commotion, he orders an investigation to see who might have left their positions [מלבי״ם].

Saul's directive to inspect the troops is understood in two distinct ways. One approach views it as a direct headcount meant to identify exactly who is absent [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another perspective suggests it is a broader call for careful observation and heightened attention to the unfolding situation [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון].

The inspection reveals that only Jonathan and his armor-bearer are missing. This discovery is deeply puzzling, as it defies logic to think that merely two men could trigger such a massive, widespread panic across the enemy camp [מלבי״ם]. Faced with this surprising reality, Saul realizes he must consult the Urim and Thummim. He needs this guidance to determine Jonathan's exact situation and to uncover the true nature of the Philistines' retreat, as he is unsure if the enemy is genuinely defeated or if they are staging a calculated military trap to lure the Israelites into an ambush [אברבנאל].