The answer is: Seven

Matt 23 - In Luke there are only six, but they do not occur at the same point in the narrative. v14 isn't present in older manuscripts so there are considered to be seven woes and not eight

Got your curiosity piqued by the seven woes Jesus aimed at the Scribes and the Pharisees? In Matthew 23, we see Jesus not just calling them out, but engaging in a bit of divine poetic theater. Each of the "woes" serves as a striking rebuke, shining light on their hypocrisy and legalism. It’s both a serious critique and a passionate call for true righteousness.

Now, here's a fun fact: the number seven in biblical literature often symbolizes completeness or perfection. So, in marking those seven woes, it underscored that their failings weren't just minor missteps – they represented a deep-rooted deviation from the genuine spirit of the law. This brings layers of richness to understanding His message: Jesus wasn’t just scolding; He was urging for a heart transformation, beckoning them toward authentic goodness.

In contrast, Luke delivers six woes at a different part of his narrative, which has led scholars to lots of fascinating debates on the variations between the Gospel accounts. It reminds us that even the early Christians navigated diverse perspectives as they unfolded stories about Jesus – demonstrating how vibrant and multi-faceted early traditions were.

Next time you dive into Jesus' teachings, notice how he flips societal expectations. It's not just rules; it's about radical love and justice that transcends the rote observance of law, daring both then and now to challenge us into deeper, transformative living.