THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
It was a remarkable deed when David refrained from harming King Saul, despite having the chance to do so (see 1 Samuel 24:10). This choice ultimately benefited him, as it shaped his future reign. Consequently, people learned to trust in their king's faith rather than engage in rivalry for power, thus honoring his authority. In this manner, virtue triumphed over favoritism, leading to favor arising from virtue. However, sparing Saul was no trivial decision; David was deeply affected by Saul's death in battle, grieving for him with tears, declaring, “Burned on Helvu, let neither dew nor rain fall upon you” (see 2 Samuel 1:21).
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He lamented for Saul, expressing, “I mourn for you, my brother Jonathan; you were very dear to me; your love was to me above the love of women.” How the mighty have fallen; how the weapons of war have perished! What mother would grieve for her only son as much as he grieved for his foe? Who honors their benefactor as David honors the one who sought his life? His sorrow was profound; he mourned with deep emotion. The mountains crumbled at the prophet's curse, and God's might executed the judgment of the one who spoke it. Thus, the natural elements themselves enacted punishment for witnessing the king's death.