שמואל א, פרק י״ד, פסוק ל״ח

God's sudden silence sends a clear message to Saul. The king understands that the lack of a divine response is not random, but rather the direct result of guilt resting upon one of the fighters [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Determined to uncover the source of this hidden wrong, Saul summons the key elements of the nation. The primary approach among commentators is that he gathers the leaders, ministers, commanders, and high-ranking officials. These senior figures are viewed conceptually as the corners of the community because they act much like the cornerstone of a building. Just as a physical corner supports a wall, the leaders are the most vital part of the national structure, providing support and stability for the entire population [רש"י, רד"ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Alternatively, this gathering is understood in a more literal, physical sense. Rather than referring exclusively to the leadership, the call goes out to the physical corners of the camp. Each tribe had been standing in its own distinct area, and Saul now summons everyone to assemble together from all directions [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון].

Once the people are gathered, Saul demands a thorough investigation to uncover the exact nature of the sin committed that specific day. His focus on the present day is based on careful logic. Earlier that very same day, God had performed a great miracle for the nation, granting them a massive military victory. Because they had just experienced such clear divine favor, Saul reasons that God's sudden withdrawal cannot be a punishment for an old, forgotten sin from the past. The only logical conclusion is that the offense is entirely new, having been committed that very day, shortly after their great salvation [מלבי"ם, מצודת דוד].