1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 26:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Let us reflect on this closely. Saul had promised David that if he conquered the foreigner, he would adopt David as family and grant him his daughter in joy. David fulfilled his part by vanquishing the foreigner; yet Saul broke his promise, not only withholding his eldest daughter but also seeking David's life. Who warranted greater honor? While Saul was tormented by longing and plagued by an evil spirit, David, through his triumph and God’s favor, gained renown and shone with brilliance. Saul, consumed by envy upon hearing songs celebrating David, saw his own downfall as David quietly endeared himself to the people. When David had Saul at his mercy and chose to spare him, who then was truly happy, and who was in despair? Who appeared stronger and who weaker? Surely, David demonstrated his strength by refraining from retribution when he had every right to seek justice. Even though Saul commanded a mighty army, David had with him the strength of truth, which surpasses the power of multitudes. Despite enduring numerous unjust wrongs, David chose not to end Saul’s life, understanding from past experiences that it is the capacity to endure wrongs that truly makes one strong. (1 Samuel 24:7)

How much more depraved was Saul compared to David? Yet, which of them displayed greater strength? Did David not have Saul vulnerable before him on two occasions, and did he not choose mercy? He refrained from taking Saul's life when he had him entrapped as though in a dungeon. Though urged by others and justified in seeking revenge for Saul's countless offenses, David let him go unharmed. Saul pursued David with an entire army while David roamed with a mere few, seemingly devoid of hope, and yet, the fugitive overcame the king, for David’s virtue overpowered Saul’s malice. Can one imagine a wickedness worse than Saul’s, who sought to kill his own commander, the very one who had led him to victory in countless battles? When Saul exiled David from his kingdom, was there anything that kept David in submission and held him back from confronting the king? Everything around him seemed poised for Saul’s demise. Saul had consistently plotted against him; David had every reason to accuse him and was even at risk of losing his crown and perhaps his life. David was forced into a life of refuge, perpetually anxious while Saul retained his reign. Yet, he would not stain his sword with blood. There was one instance when Saul, deeply asleep amid his soldiers, lay within David's reach. Despite the prompting voices urging him to strike, David silenced them, choosing instead to treat Saul with the grace of a protector rather than a foe. What can rival such a soul? Such meekness is beyond compare. This shines through in what transpired next. When we consider our own failings, we can better appreciate the virtue of the saints. Therefore, I urge you to emulate their fervor for righteousness.

Indeed, Saul, who conspired against David after countless acts of kindness, wronged him repeatedly and sought his life time and again, was spared by David, who could have easily taken vengeance. Despite the edge of opportunity appearing before him, David restrained his wrath, choosing exposure to danger over the execution of an unjust act. He preferred to sacrifice his own safety rather than enact revenge on one who even after receiving countless benefits, threatened him with death. This is a testimony to the depth of David’s wisdom. Saul addressed David as the son of Jesse; yet, when David encountered Saul asleep in the cave, he referred to him with honor, declaring, “But let not the Lord allow me to lift up my hand against the anointed of the Lord.” How remarkable was his purity of heart, his lack of resentment! He referred to the Lord’s chosen despite the wrongs and threats he faced, focusing not on what Saul deserved but on what his own character necessitated. This represents the pinnacle of prudence. How could he hold in his grasp an enemy, so thoroughly at his mercy? Instead, he chose not to seek retribution but to act in accordance with his principles. The circumstances surrounding him, despite presenting an easy opportunity for vengeance, did not sway him; rather, he perceived that God had placed Saul therein to test him towards greater righteousness. One might wonder at David’s capacity to dismiss past grievances, but an even greater marvel is that he did not let fear of future retribution drive him to violence. Aware that Saul would regroup against him, he chose to embrace the risk of sparing Saul rather than resorting to murder for his own security. What can compare to such nobility that transcends the law’s demands for equal retribution, wherein the command revealed an eye for an eye? Not only did he refrain from revenge, but he exhibited heightened wisdom in his response. Even had he slain Saul, praise would have eluded him for prudence, as he would have avenged himself without any initial provocation. He would have merely followed the law—retribution for a life taken. Instead, he chose to extend grace. David realized the weight of his choices, aiming for a reward not only for the restraint he practiced but also for the extraordinary patience he cultivated amidst his trials. While those who seek retribution are not deemed patient, David’s actions spoke volumes of his extraordinary self-control and wisdom. What excuse do we have to remember our own injustices and pursue vengeance upon others, when David, after suffering so much, opted to spare his enemy and remained silent against him? In comparison, he demonstrated profound prudence, choosing not to utter a word in anger against the one who had wronged him the most. Thus, his humane nature and care became evident in his conduct.