The answer is: 3000

Jdg 16:27

In the dramatic tale of Samson and Delilah, we find ourselves in a gripping moment where the might of the strongest man meets the power of the weakest heart. As he swayed before his captors, a crowd of 3,000 gathered in the temple of Dagon to witness this fallen hero. Imagine the atmosphere: laughter mingling with shouts, all while under the flickering lights of oil lamps. These gatherings were the original blockbuster events of the day!

The temple is filled not just with members of the Philistine elite, but everyday people too, perhaps intrigued by the once-great judge now reduced to a mere spectacle. This scene speaks to a deeper theme—how easily strength can turn to weakness, and heroes can become mere entertainers when stripped of their purpose.

Interestingly, the biblical account emphasizes the stunning fact that though he felt utterly defeated—his hair shorn and eyes blinded—Samson's strength returned when he turned back to his roots, asking God for one last push so he could avenge his capture. This moment becomes a rallying cry for themes of redemption and resurrection, reminding readers that it’s never too late for a comeback, regardless of how dire the circumstance.

To dot the i's and cross the t's, the famous law of averages suggests that with 3,000 souls present, sports as entertainment could learn a thing or two from how the dear Book portrays an even greater showdown—a perfect reflection of love, betrayal, and a thunderous finale that leaves us breathless!