שמואל א, פרק י״ז, פסוק ב׳

A nation preparing for war often reveals its true state of mind through its strategic choices. As Saul and the Israelite army organize for battle, the location they choose for their camp exposes a deep sense of weakness. Instead of gathering the courage to attack the Philistines and drive them out of their position in Socoh, the Israelites are afraid to approach. They choose to set up their camp far away in the Valley of Elah.

Because of this hesitation, the Philistines take the initiative and advance toward the Israelite camp. Although the Israelites actively prepare and arrange themselves for combat [ביאור שטיינזלץ], the simple fact that they stay put and wait for the enemy to approach from afar is a clear sign that their hearts have melted from fear [מלבי״ם].