Even against the word of the Lord. — Saul’s unfaithfulness was twofold: (1) he did not observe the prophetic word of Jehovah (comp. 1 Samuel 13:13; 1 Samuel 15:11); and (2) he consulted a necromancer, to the neglect of consulting Jehovah (1 Samuel 28).
And also for asking counsel. — And also by consulting the necromancer in order to get a response. “Turn ye not to the necromancers” (Leviticus 19:31). (See also Isaiah 8:19.) Saul broke the general law of his people, as well as special commands addressed to himself. No allusion is made to his cruel slaughter of the priests (1 Samuel 22:18), nor to his implacable hatred of David.