PBA: Not a fair Dimyon. Shaul had an explicit order which he violated. That would be similar to saying, “Killing animals is bad so I won’t bring a Korban.” That would be too merciful because it goes against Hashem’s command. Saying, “I won’t kill animals except for when absolutely necessary because I feel bad about killing them” seems like a great example of being Mekadesh Atzmo B’muttar Lo.
