The move to Mahanaim was likely due to the growing influence and control of the Philistines over the northern (see 1 Samuel 31:7) and southwestern regions of Israel (see 1 Samuel 27:5–6).1 Mahanaim was in the east, across the Jordan River and thus safe from Philistine attack. This would have been a good place from which to replenish and establish Ish-bosheth’s rule.2
8 Cependant Abner, fils de Ner, chef de l'armée de Saül, prit Isch-Boscheth, fils de Saül, et le fit passer à Mahanaïm.