4. How did David demonstrate mercy towards Saul when he had the opportunity to kill him? Provide two points with brief elaboration. (3 marks)

David Spared Saul's Life: In 1 Samuel 24, Saul was pursuing David to kill him. David and his men were hiding in the back of a cave when Saul entered the cave to relieve himself. David's men saw this as a perfect opportunity to kill Saul, but David refused. Instead, he cut off a corner of Saul's robe to show that he could have killed him but chose not to. This act demonstrated David's mercy towards Saul.

David Honored Saul: In 2 Samuel 1, when David learned about Saul's death, he mourned for him and honored him with a lament. He could have rejoiced over his enemy's death, but instead, he chose to honor Saul's position as God's anointed king. This showed David's respect and mercy towards Saul, even in death.