1 Samuel 31:11

Rent them. This act revealed the true greatness of Israel’s future king. David mourned with genuine sorrow. Even though Saul had sought to take the life of his supposed rival, David entertained no malice toward him. This reaction on the part of David is not the natural response of the human heart of man but is an indication of the love and pity of God within the soul. As a true Israelite, David mourned the death of the king, and as a personal friend he mourned the loss of Jonathan, whom he regarded with deep affection.

Jabesh-gilead. See on ch. 11:1-11. Remembering that Saul had wrought so wonderfully for the deliverance of this city, the elders felt it a privilege to do honor to the body of their rescuer. Misfortune, defeat, and death all bring to light the hidden sympathies in the hearts of men, and reveal their noblest sentiments.

Fasted seven days. The inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead demonstrated unabated loyalty to their fallen leader. Having accorded his body and the bodies of his sons a respectable burial, they observed a brief period of mourning.

=== 10 2 Samuel 01-04.txt ===