יהושע, פרק ח׳, פסוק ט״ו

As part of a calculated military tactic designed to lure the enemy out of their fortified city, the Israelite army stages a retreat. The primary approach among commentators is that the fighters put on an act, appearing to be beaten, weakened, and defeated by the people of Ai.

There is a discussion regarding the physical reality of this escape. Some maintain that fleeing from an active enemy cannot occur without taking some damage, suggesting that the Israelite fighters absorbed real blows during the retreat [רד״ק]. Others disagree, explaining that the event was a complete simulation, much like a person merely pretending to be wealthy or poor [מלבי״ם].

The core purpose of this deception, executed by Joshua and the entire army under the command of God, was to create a fatal illusion. When the people of Ai saw the massive Israelite camp appear to break and run, they quickly gathered together to chase them. This reaction successfully drew the enemy forces away, leaving their city completely empty [אברבנאל].

The escape route led the Israelites eastward toward the wilderness [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This specific area is identified as the wilderness of Beth Aven, located north of the city, indicating that the army backed away in a straight line [מלבי״ם]. This wilderness was not a barren wasteland, but rather an open grazing area for sheep and livestock situated near the populated city [רד״ק].