שמואל א, פרק כ״ו, פסוק ו׳

Returning to his men, David initiates a daring nighttime operation by turning to two of his closest associates [מצודת דוד]. He offers the mission to Ahimelech the Hittite, who represents the converts that attached themselves to David's army since they possessed no land of their own in Israel, and to Abishai son of Zeruiah, who served as one of the camp leaders [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. David asks who will join him on this descent into enemy territory. His tactical reasoning is that under the cover of darkness, they could easily blend into the opposing camp and be mistaken for Saul's own soldiers [מלבי״ם].

David undertakes this mission with absolute certainty that his adversary will fall into his hands. His confidence stems from two severe sins committed by Saul: the massacre of the priests of Nob, whose souls now demand justice, and the violation of his explicit oath not to cause David harm. Because of these transgressions, David strips Saul of his majesty, referring to him without any royal titles. Furthermore, David directs his focus toward the entire camp to highlight the shared guilt of the officers and soldiers. The army bears collective responsibility because they stood by silently during the slaughter of the priests of Nob, and they made no effort to stop Saul from breaking his oath during this current pursuit [חומת אנך].