And the king said unto his servants, Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel?

David's words reflect the delicate political landscape he navigates in the aftermath of Abner's death. At this juncture, David is keenly aware of the tension between the newly united Israel and Judah. By publicly mourning Abner, David seeks to mitigate the potential fallout from Abner's assassination, distancing himself from Joab's impulsive act and affirming his respect for Abner's stature. This statement is a strategic move to stabilize his reign and highlight his commitment to unity and peace. By calling Abner "a prince and a great man," David underscores Abner's importance and aims to quell any unrest that might arise from the perceived instability and violence. It’s a delicate balance, as David must honor a former adversary to consolidate power and appease factions loyal to Saul. Thus, this quote encapsulates David's political acumen and his efforts to cement his legitimacy as the ruler over a fractured kingdom.