The act was equivalent to imposing upon him the conduct of the
struggle against the Philistines, and so he understood it. The
first signal for the attack was given by his son Jonathan, when
he slew the _necib_ of the Philistines at Gibeah. These in
consequence advanced in force towards the focus of the revolt,
and took up a position opposite Gibeah on the north, being divided
from it only by the gorge of Michmash. Only a few hundred
Benjamites ventured to remain with Saul. The struggle opened
with a piece of genuine old heroic daring. While the Philistines
were dispersed over the country in foraging expeditions, Jonathan,
accompanied by his armour-bearer only, and without the knowledge
of Saul, made an attack upon the weak post which they had left
behind at the pass of Michmash. After the first had been
surprised and overmastered, the others took to flight, no doubt
in the belief that the two assailants were supported. They
carried their panic with them into the half-deserted camp, whence
it spread among the various foraging bands. The commotion was
observed from Gibeah opposite, and, without pausing to consult the
priestly oracle, King Saul determined to attack the camp.
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