The Philistines were concerned when David came to rule over a united Israel.1 When he was king only of Hebron, his power was limited and he was not a real threat to Philistine interests.2 Now, however, with David as the head of a united kingdom, Israel was a threat once again. As such, it made sense for them to act quickly before the armies of Israel were prepared and their unity was strengthened. If they could get rid of David, there would be no leader to unite the tribes, and the land of Israel would be theirs for the taking.
17 Les Philistins apprirent qu'on avait oint David pour roi sur Israël, et ils montèrent tous à sa recherche. David, qui en fut informé, descendit à la forteresse.