Saul and David – Between Folly and Nobility

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III reflected on the story of King Saul and David the Prophet, showing that a person may begin with great spirituality but fall when he relies on himself instead of God. Saul began humbly, saying to Samuel: “I am from the least of the tribes of Israel.” God anointed him king, and the Holy Spirit came upon him so that “he became another man.” But over time, he trusted in his own strength and disobeyed God, turning from a blessed king into a man without peace.

Pride Leads to Ruin

Saul’s greatest downfall was self-reliance. He offered sacrifices without waiting for the priest, and disobeyed God’s command to destroy Amalek, keeping the best sheep “for sacrifice.” Samuel rebuked him, saying: “Obedience is better than sacrifice.” For this, God rejected Saul, and the Holy Spirit departed from him. He became a king with a crown but no grace.

The Spirit Departs

When Saul separated himself from God, an evil spirit tormented him. David was brought to play the harp, and Saul’s spirit was soothed. The power was not in the music but in the Spirit of God dwelling in David, who stood between Saul and the evil one, radiating divine peace.

Jealousy – The Seed of Hatred

After David defeated Goliath, the women sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” Jealousy took root in Saul’s heart, and he turned from love to hatred, seeking to kill David — a symbol of the soul corrupted by envy.

David – The Man of Humility

Despite being hunted, David never retaliated. Twice he spared Saul’s life, saying: “Far be it from me to stretch out my hand against the Lord’s anointed.” He respected the divine anointing even in a fallen man, proving that humility is stronger than revenge.

Nobility That Shook Hardness

When David said, “After whom is the king of Israel pursuing? After a dead dog? After a flea?” Saul wept, saying: “You are more righteous than I.” Yet the Pope explained this was not real repentance but a passing emotion — for Saul’s heart remained proud and unchanged.

Returning Good for Evil

David always treated Saul with respect: “Here is the spear of my lord the king; send one of your men to get it.” He saw God’s hand in the anointing, not Saul’s weakness. His gentleness revealed the true strength of a man who forgives even his enemy.

The End of Folly, the Triumph of Nobility

Saul died in battle, and David mourned him, crying: “How the mighty have fallen!” Saul’s pride and self-centeredness led him to ruin, while David’s humility and mercy made him a true king after God’s heart.

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