2 Samuel 19:23 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

The king said unto Shimei, Thou shalt not die— Shimei was of the house and family of Saul, and a person of great power and influence in the tribe of Benjamin, of whom he had a thousand in his train, when he made his submission to David upon his restoration. The manner in which he accosted David, chap. 2 Samuel 16:13 when flying from Jerusalem, discovered the inward rancour of his heart, and his readiness to join in any measures to distress and disturb his government, and cause the crown to revert to the house of Saul. Though Abishai advised the king to put him to death, yet David, as illustrious for forgiveness, as for his piety in the Psalms, having refused before to put him to death, when he was actually cursing and stoning him, preserved the same dignity of mind, and, on his making his submission, ratified his pardon with an oath. Note; (1.) Clemency is one of the noblest qualities of a prince. (2.) When rebel sinners appear at the feet of Divine Mercy, though Satan stand to accuse them, there shall be no condemnation.