The Philistines were a constant threat during Saul’s rule (see 1 Samuel 14:47–52).
Socoh in Judah was 22.5 kilometers (14 miles) west of Bethlehem, near Philistine land.
Azekah was a few kilometers northwest of Socoh (the exact location of Ephes-dammim is unknown). The Philistines were invading Israelite territory.