In Book Three of the Masnavi (Section 81), Rumi uses the story of Luqman observing Prophet David forging chainmail to illustrate the spiritual virtue of patience (sabr). Unfamiliar with the armor-making process, Luqman is tempted to ask what David is building but restrains his curiosity, reasoning that patience will reveal the truth sooner than hasty inquiry. When the armor is complete, David explains its purpose, validating Luqman's restraint. The allegory demonstrates that patience is the swiftest guide to understanding, while premature questioning only complicates matters, reinforcing the overarching Sufi theme that patience brings relief.