The answer is: Three

Matt 13:33

In Matthew 13:33, Jesus shares a fascinating parable about a woman mixing three measures of flour with leaven. This brief but vivid tale holds layers of meaning and offers much to explore!

First off, there's the significance of using three measures of flour, which would amount to roughly a bushel. This isn’t just a small task—feeding a family! In a mostly agrarian society, it could sustain a large group. Symbolically, this could represent an abundance and full provision—attributes often associated with God's kingdom. If we consider loaves of bread, speeches surrounding such abundance would spark a deeper theological resonance!

The leaven itself is intriguing as well. Leaven, or yeast, works quietly yet confidently behind the scenes, transforming mere dough into something nutritious and hearty. Much like the message of love and transformation in the Gospel blooms into the world, seemingly small acts can lead to profound changes—the Kingdom of Heaven grows among us, overtaking and influencing by its very nature.

In biblical tradition, leaven also carries dual symbolism. While it can represent positive change, religious law typically treated leaven as a source of impurity during Passover observances—leading to this contrast between cleanliness and the spontaneous, uncontrollable nature of life and growth. Is it too far-fetched to suggest that this highlights the unpredictability of faith and grace? The echoes of abundance and transformation invite us to explore the mysterious ways of spirituality in everyday life!