The answer is: 12

Lev 24:5-6 - They were renewed each Sabbath.

In the Tabernacle, the 12 loaves of bread were more than just a culinary treat; they served as a profound symbol of God's ongoing relationship with His people. Each loaf represented one of the 12 tribes of Israel, portraying the continuous provision and nourishment from the Divine. Gathered and displayed every Sabbath, this bread, known as the “showbread,” had unique ritual importance.

It’s fascinating to note that the word “showbread” comes from the Hebrew term “lechem ha-panim,” meaning 'bread of the Presence'—literally bread that reflects the presence of God. This acts like a heavenly invitation for the tribes to come together under unity and worship. Every week, priests would eat the old bread in a sacred act that symbolized sharing in God's abundance.

Strategically aside from the spiritual significance, they show how God was involved in the day-to-day lives of the people, sustaining them physically as well as spiritually. Plus, the placement of this bread in the Holy Place suggests a sacred design where the tangible and the spiritual intersect—a reminder that daily life and divine connection are deeply intertwined.

Reflecting on this today sparks thoughts of inclusivity; a common table inviting everyone's spirit nourished by their collective heritage. It echoes the principle that festivity and togetherness fortify the communal bond, much like how ancient gatherings reaffirmed faith and fellowship through shared meals. What an enriching aspect of history that highlights spirituality's embrace of everyday realities!