The answer is: Three

Matt 13:33

In Matthew 13:33, Jesus tells the parable of the leaven in a rather understated yet profound manner. He mentions that a woman takes three measures of flour and hides leaven in it, which ultimately results in a magnificent transformation of the dough. Interestingly, this is no ordinary number; three measures correspond to about a bushel, a tremendous amount that suggests a large-scale baking operation.

The imagery here isn't just about baking bread; it whispers an ancient secret about how small influences can create significant change. Think of leaven—a humble, invisible agent of growth—found throughout the biblical text. Paul echoes this idea in Galatians 5:9 when he warns that a little leaven can leaven the whole lump, reminding us of the powerful ripple effects actions can have.

Also noteworthy is the culture baked into these parables. Flour, as a staple in ancient diets, symbolized everyday life. Hence, the message reaches all people, transcending socio-economic divides.

The parable invites readers to consider their influence, just like the leaven's impact on the dough. The three measures symbolize a bountiful potential for change where, seemingly out of nothing, great things arise. As everyday folks, we can ask ourselves: what kind of "leaven" am I hiding in the flour of my life today?