The answer is: Hebron

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

When David came into power following the tragic deaths of Saul and Jonathan, his first move was to Hebron, a place steeped in historical significance. It’s like the perfect starting line for a new chapter in his life. Hebron was not just any city; it was one of the oldest cities of the region with deep roots tied to Abraham and the patriarchs. In fact, Abraham is believed to have been buried in Hebron, making it a hotbed of spiritual and cultural significance for the Israelites.

When we look at what this means for David, we see that his choice was strategic. He needed to cement his leadership and demonstrate his commitment to unity among the tribes of Israel, particularly since he had strong ties to Saul’s lineage through Jonathan. By moving to Hebron, David established himself in Judea first before later uniting the entire nation under his rule in Jerusalem. It's interesting to note that David reigned in Hebron for seven years before heading to Jerusalem, representing a time of preparation and alignment.

Moreover, the move to Jerusalem later isn’t just for peace; it's almost like a more sophisticated stage for his future endeavors. In many respects, relocating to cities with deep historical roots was a common practice in the ancient world, signaling a strategic decision by leaders that reflected both heritage and a call to greater ambitions. Each step of David's journey adds to a narrative that's rich in lessons about leadership, community, and the importance of understanding one's roots.