Understanding of the times; either,
1. Skill in the stars, and several seasons and changes of the air; which might be of good use in husbandry, to which this tribe was addicted Genesis 49:14 Deuteronomy 33:18. Or rather,
2. Political prudence to discern and embrace the fit seasons for all actions; as appears,
1. From the following words, to know what, not only their own tribe, but all Israel ought to do.
2. By the great authority and command which they had over all their brethren upon this account, as it here follows.
3. Because this is so considerable a circumstance in all human, and especially in public, affairs, that the success or disappointment of them depends very much upon the right or wrong timing of them, and therefore this is a very fit expression to signify their great prudence. And particularly they showed this point of their wisdom at this time; for as they had adhered to Saul whilst he lived, as knowing the time was not yet come for David to take possession of the kingdom; and as they could not join themselves to David whilst Abner lived, and was potent, and had the command of the other tribes, wherewith they were encompassed; so as soon as he was dead, and they had opportunity to declare themselves, they owned David for their king.
4. By the like use of this phrase, Esther 1:13.