Shunem was in the northern part of the territory of the tribe Issachar (Joshua 19:17–18).1 Encamped at Shumen, the Philistines not only gathered on land where their chariots can manoeuvre,2 but they also controlled an important trade route and access to the northernmost tribes of Israel. The traditional Israelite advantage of fighting in and on the hills had been neutralised by the Philistine battle location.3
4 The Philistines assembled and came and encamped at Shunem. And Saul gathered all Israel, and they encamped at Gilboa.