The answer is: 12

Gen 35:22 - forming the basis for the tribes of Israel.

Jacob, also known as Israel, had twelve sons, and each one played a crucial role in the founding of the twelve tribes of Israel. It's fascinating to consider that these names have survived down through centuries and are often referred to symbolically in various cultural contexts. Each son's personality and story contribute to the broader narrative of the Israelites, showing a rich tapestry of familial dynamics.

The names of Jacob's sons—Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin—each have unique meanings that often reflect a part of their mother’s desires, struggles, and positions in the story. For instance, Judah stands out as a notable figure as he's associated with leadership and lineage, being the ancestor of King David and, in a Christian context, ultimately seen as the lineage to Jesus.

Moreover, while the Bible gives us this core list, it’s intriguing to note that Joseph, one of Jacob's sons, being sold into slavery by his brothers led to a significant turn of events, shaping his family's destiny. Not only did Joseph rise to power in Egypt, but he also eventually leads the rest of his family into this new intrigue and prosperity.

The narratives around Jacob and his sons illuminate the complex relationships that define not just family, but also emerging nations. Each tribe would develop its own identity, culture, and significance, reminding us that from family and personal stories, much larger societal narratives unfold.