יהושע, פרק ח׳, פסוק י״ז

The intense desire to strike down the Israelites creates a dangerous situation for their enemies, leading them to completely abandon their own defenses. Swept up in the momentum of the pursuit, the local forces leave their home front entirely unprotected.

This eagerness to fight draws in additional troops from the surrounding area. It is not just the residents of Ai who rush out to chase the Israelites; the people of the neighboring city of Bethel also unite with them and join the battle [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Consumed by their drive to catch their enemies, this combined army leaves their city wide open. In their hasty pursuit, they march out without leaving a single defending force behind to protect their home.