2 Kingdoms (2 Samuel) 1:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When he was saved from these tribulations and restored his wives and all the captives, before he could fully rejoice in this triumph, he was once more overwhelmed by the heartrending tidings of Jonathan's passing, which deeply grieved his spirit, evident in his mourning words: “Your love has attacked me more than the love of a woman” (2 Kings 1:26).

Why did the prophet mourn? Several reasons contributed to his tears: his loyalty to Jonathan, deep affection for his people, the triumph of the ungodly enemies, and notably, the death of Saul, whom David honored in life far more than in death. This sentiment is reflected in Deuteronomy: they mourned and wept, fasting until evening for Saul, for his son Jonathan, for the men of Judah, and for the house of Israel, who had fallen by the sword.