It is narrated from Sayyiduna Ka'b bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would rarely set out for a battle without concealing his true intention by indicating another destination, except in the case of the Battle of Tabuk. In that instance, during intense heat, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) intended a long journey through deserts and to face a large enemy force. Therefore, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) clearly informed the Muslims so that they could prepare thoroughly to confront the enemy, and he told them the exact direction in which he intended to go.