1 Samuel 24:13 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

As saith the proverb of the ancients, Wickedness proceedeth from the wicked: but mine hand shall not be upon thee. Wickedness proceeded from the wicked - This proverb may be thus understood: He that does a wicked act, gives proof thereby that he is a wicked man. From him who is wicked, wickedness will proceed; he who is wicked will add one iniquity to another. Had I conspired to dethrone thee, I should have taken thy life when it was in my power, and thus added wickedness to wickedness.