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

The seven woes pronounced by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew highlight some intriguing aspects of societal and religious thought during His time. As Jesus called out the Scribes and Pharisees, it was more than just critique; it was a powerful spotlight on hypocrisy and a reminder of accountability. The Religious leaders, seen as educative guardians, were not just failing wayward folks; they also misled those who earnestly sought guidance.

Now, here’s a delightful nugget of trivia: the wording and cadence of these woes evoke echoes of the Jewish prophetic tradition. In many ways, Jesus steps into the shoes of the ancient prophets, declaring truth in a world not always receptive. Did you know that woe as a term appears all throughout the Old Testament? It's a serious call—think of it almost as an alarm, urging us to reflect and change our ways.

In Luke, and other scripts, the variations present even more depth. The six woes in Luke cast a characteristically more gentle tone, perhaps leading us to ponder the weight of measurement across different contexts. When you look at these verses collectively, it’s clear that these teachings invite us to hold not just others but ourselves accountable in the pursuit of truth and humility. Whether ancient or modern, the ability to recognize our own shortcomings can foster profound growth and understanding. So next time you read this passage, consider not just the ‘woes’ but the call to vibrant lovingkindness that doesn’t just critique, but transforms.