The answer is: In a cave

1 Samuel 24:3-4

In 1 Samuel 24, David finds himself in the wilderness, evading King Saul, who is hell-bent on capturing him. Imagine the scene: David and his men hide in a cave while Saul, unaware of the danger around him, comes in to attend to his needs. This is where David seizes a unique opportunity—rather than confronting Saul head-on, he stealthily cuts off a piece of Saul's cloak. This intriguing act becomes a powerful symbol.

Cutting the cloak could represent a few ideas. It poignantly signifies the severing of Saul's authority as king; David, who had been anointed to take Saul's place, did not take his power by force but instead used a symbolic gesture. Also, cloaks in biblical times often represented status and protection, much like how David was choosing to showcase that power shifts are not necessarily about conflict.

What’s fascinating is that incidences like this are echoed throughout scripture, reminding us of moments where actions reveal more significant truths. Just as David’s act speaks to humility over pride, we find similar narratives in the Gospels, where principles of mercy and justice hold meaning over mere blunt force from kings and conquerors.

Also, just as far back as the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors in Genesis, garments frequently symbolize deeper relationships, conflict, and covenant. In the end, this simple interaction in a cave—while seemingly nonchalant—would serve as a pivotal moment of establishing true leadership qualities, both in David and in humanity generally.