The answer is: Hebron

2 Sam 2:1-3 - Hebron first and then later moved to Jerusalem when he became king over Israel

After Saul and Jonathan’s tragic deaths, the echoes of those events lead us to Hebron—the city that would become a significant part of David's story. This ancient city has a rich history, being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's fascinating to think that David, a shepherd boy turned warrior king, chose Hebron as a place for rallying his supporters and beginning his reign.

What's often noted, but not universally recognized, is that Hebron is deeply tied to themes of leadership and reconciliation. David's decision to rule from Hebron makes a statement about unity and healing after a decade of turmoil. Rather than claiming Saul’s throne directly in the face of ongoing conflict, David opts for this neutral ground—a gesture towards both Saul's followers and the tribes of Israel. This was an astute move, considering the deep rivalries that existed.

Furthermore, Hebron is also the burial place for the patriarchs; it houses the Cave of Machpelah, a reminder of God's longstanding covenant with them. It reflects a theme present throughout the Bible: the unfolding divine plan linked to geography and lineage.

David’s eventual transition to Jerusalem signifies a significant evolution in leadership from tribal leader to king over a united nation, showcasing how biblical locations often embody profound theological significance and the narrative arcs of human development. Each city's stones tell stories of faith, struggle, and divine purpose, culminating in transforming them in leadership's light.