The answer is: Three

Luke 11:5-6

In the Gospel of Luke, we come across this intriguing vignette of a midnight encounter concerning hospitality. When Jesus uses the example of a friend knocking on a door at night, it’s not just about bread but about relationships, community, and, really, the rhythm of human need. Three loaves is a seemingly simple detail, yet it holds deeper significance, symbolizing abundance and generosity.

In the ancient Near Eastern culture, hospitality was considered sacred—an essential social root. When someone arrived unannounced, it wasn’t just about food but also about not bringing shame to oneself for not offering comfort. Did you know that in many of Jesus's parables, settings often emphasize communal bonds? The renowned Guest Hospitality echoed through stories during this era, highlighting the need for community beyond personal limits.

Interestingly, the mention of “three” could evoke the well-known patterns of threes found in many biblical narratives, including the three angels who visited Abraham or even Peter’s three denials. Such repeated motifs in scripture offer an echo of a relational connection further emphasised through multiple scriptural encounters.

This moment in Luke illustrates not just the physical act of feeding but a sense of mutual support and interconnectedness within communities, reminding readers and seekers alike on the vital roles they serve—especially in times of need. The call to generosity sinks in deep, today as much as it did back then.