The answer is: 70

Exodus 15:27 - Upon arriving at Elim, the Israelites found 70 palm trees and 12 springs of water, symbolizing God’s providence and care during their Exodus journey. Palm trees often represent victory and peace in Scripture, linking this moment to later triumphs, such as Christ's Triumphal Entry in John 12:13.

The account of the Israelites arriving at Elim is a striking reminder of how nature was intertwined with spiritual experiences, particularly in the desert setting. Imagine 70 stately palm trees dotting the landscape, a vibrant burst of life against the harshness of the wilderness. In biblical symbolism, palm trees symbolize triumph and prosperity, making Elim a sanctuary of hope and abundance after the struggles of the Exodus.

What's also fascinating is the inclusion of the twelve springs of water. Water in the dry deserts held not just physical sustenance but also spiritual significance, often representing the necessity of divine nurture. This enhancement of their physical plight with such natural blessings signifies a turning point, where reliance on divine presence becomes central.

The number 70 is not random either—it resonates like the echo of biblical patterns. For instance, there were 70 elders chosen to assist Moses in Exodus 24:1. Even in the Gospel of Luke, the missionaries Jesus sends out in pairs also number seventy. Each showing how God’s establishment is built upon a community guided by divine wisdom.

Moreover, palm branches are a recurring symbol in celebrations depicted in Scripture, like the Feast of Tabernacles and the renowned celebrations in Revelation with its reminders of eternal victory. Hence, Elim not only represents a geographical reward for perseverance but also prefigures the ongoing relationship between nature, communal strength, and spiritual sustenance, allowing us to take delight in both faith and the created world.