Commentators explain that the relatively small number of Benjamites who came to support David—only 3,000—was due to their deep-seated tribal loyalty. As Saul's kinsmen, the majority of the tribe was still 'keeping their allegiance to the house of Saul,' even after the deaths of Saul and his heir, Ishbosheth. Their old loyalties made them reluctant to embrace God's new chosen king.