What is the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, and why did David and his men need to rise when he heard it?
The sound of marching echoes Judges 5:4 (see also Judges 4:14).1 We can assume that David and his men heard this sound, and that it was then the sign for them to come out of hiding and engage in battle. Some consider that the sound was a wind blowing in the trees which served to hide the sounds of David’s men as they got into an ambush position.
24 And when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, then rouse yourself, for then the LORD has gone out before you to strike down the army of the Philistines.”