And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the people, saying, Cursed be the man that eateth any food until evening, that I may be avenged on mine enemies — in the heat of victory, Saul issues a rash oath ('nishba'), cursing anyone who eats food until evening. The oath is intended to maintain military momentum and prevent soldiers from stopping to eat. So none of the people tasted any food — the oath is scrupulously observed, the entire army fasting during the battle.

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