The answer is: Three

Luke 11:5-6

In the Gospel of Luke, when Jesus tells the parable of the persistent friend coming at midnight, He beautifully illustrates the importance of hospitality and the willingness to help others, even if it's inconvenient. It might seem trivial that He mentions "three loaves" specifically, but within the cultural context of ancient Israel, bread was an essential staple—almost a symbol of life itself. It hints at the wildly generous nature of hospitality, which required readiness to share what little one might have, especially at such an odd hour!

Did you know that this amount, three loaves, might connect to common Jewish practices? For example, a loaf each could symbolize a meal for the friend and his two companions—which links to an understanding of communal dining in Jewish life. Bread could signify friendship and trust, aligning closely with how sustenance was provided among community members.

And here’s a fun fact: the miracle of the loaves and fishes occurs in all four Gospels, echoing this theme of God's abundance even when resources seem limited. Symbolically, bread continues to resonate through the scriptures, intertwining with themes of nourishment—spiritual and physical—culminating in striking metaphors in Christian teachings, such as Jesus referring to Himself as the “bread of life.” It's all about connection, availability, and, ultimately, acting out one's love towards others.