Though some have suggested that the Hebrews were a group of Israelite mercenaries who had been fighting for the Philistines, it is more likely that this term simply refers to the Israelites in general.1 The people of Israel as a whole must hear about the defeat of the Philistine governor/outpost so that they will prepare themselves for war against the Philistines. Saul blows the trumpet (sends messengers) in an attempt to summon more men to fight.2
3 Jonathan defeated the garrison of the Philistines that was at Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, “Let the Hebrews hear.”