שמואל א, פרק כ״ו, פסוק ד׳

In the midst of conflict, acting on unverified information is a dangerous risk. David refuses to rely on mere rumors regarding Saul's pursuit. To verify the reports of the king's arrival, he takes direct action and sends out spies.

The primary approach among commentators is that through these scouts, David establishes absolute certainty that Saul has indeed arrived. Going beyond simply confirming the king's presence, this intelligence provides a highly specific picture of the situation. David learns the exact location of the camp and every detail of how the opposing forces are arranged [מלבי״ם].