1 Samuel 28:4

the Philistines gathered themselves together This was no border foray, but a gathering of the whole force of the confederacy, as is clear from 1 Samuel 28:1 and 1 Samuel 29:1-4, for a decisive struggle with Israel. They marched northwards along the coast to the plain of Esdraelon, the great battle-field of Palestine, where their chariots and horsemen could move freely.

in Shunem Now Sôlam, on the S.W. slope of the range called Little Hermon (Neby Dûhy), opposite Jezreel and Mount Gilboa, having the deep broad valley of Jezreel between, and overlooking the whole western plain to Carmel. Shunem is elsewhere mentioned as the abode of Abishag (1 Kings 1:3), and the home of the woman who entertained Elisha (2 King 1 Samuel 4:8 ff.).

in Gilboa A mountainous tract on the E. of the plain of Esdraelon. It is now called Jebel Fukûa, but the ancient name is still preserved in the village of Jelbôn, situated on the top of the mountain.