The answer is: Three

Matt 13:33

The Gospel of Matthew provides us with rich imagery, and the Parable of the Leaven is a delightful example that packs spiritual meaning into a seemingly simple concept. In Matthew 13:33, the mention of three measures of flour is not just a random detail; it resonates deeply with Hebrew cultural practices and holds more significance.

To put this into perspective, three measures of flour would equate to about a bushel, an amount substantial enough to feed a large group. It's like saying the impact of this “leaven” isn’t just small and inconspicuous; it has the power to influence or transform significantly. Leaven, or yeast, is commonly associated with change—its ability to affect something vastly greater than its weight speaks to spiritual transformation on a communal scale.

Fun trivia: Yeast in the Bible often symbolizes sin or corruption, so the captivating twist in this parable is how something traditionally viewed negatively is now used to explain the subtleties and strength of God’s kingdom.

Interestingly, other biblical references allude to leaven, like during Passover when the Israelites were commanded to remove it from their homes, symbolizing purity and the opportunity for renewal. Here, though, it becomes a metaphor for how something capable of rapid expansion—like faith or love—can fill our lives just as yeast puffs up dough. It invites us to embrace transformative possibilities in our communities!