The answer is: 3000

Jdg 16:27

Imagine the scene: a massive gathering in the temple of Dagon, with an excited crowd buzzing, clamoring for entertainment. When we dig into Judges 16:27, we discover that there were about 3,000 men and women watching Samson as he brought the house down—quite literally! This is not just a casual audience; these folks gathered eagerly to witness the spectacle of a mighty hero brought low, and there’s deep symbolism in their choice of entertainment.

Interestingly, the context surrounding this event highlights a stark transformation in Samson. Once a cherished deliverer of Israel, his strength had turned into vulnerability. The temple itself, dedicated to Dagon (the god of grain processes), represented a contrasting power—thepression dominating Samson after he shared the secret of his strength with Delilah.

An intriguing snippet from historical texts reveals that Dagon worship rituals sometimes involved significant seasonal festivals, connecting this moment with the agriculture cycles of the land. Samson's spectacle wasn’t merely for humor; it carried consequences, breeching false power dynamics between a nation and an individual.

Furthermore, Samson’s humbling act highlights the theme of redemption. His final moments weren’t just about bringing down the temple but about rediscovering his strength and connection to his mission of saving the Israelites. This powerful narrative resonates beyond ancient texts—a great lesson of humility, identity, and the multifaceted path of judgment and revival in the human experience.