The answer is: Eight

1 Pe 3:20 - Eight souls were saved by the ark, Noah, his three sons and the four wives.

It's fascinating to think about the story of Noah's Ark and those eight souls who found safety amidst chaos. Beyond the remarkable adventure—and let's be real, can you imagine herding all those animals?—there's a striking representation of hope and renewal in this narrative.

Noah and his family were like the ultimate 'survivors', but they're also hints at something deeper. The number eight itself hints at new beginnings. In various cultures, it's seen as a number symbolizing regeneration or rebirth. That's what we find here; a divine reset button flooding a corrupted world but preserving a thread of hope.

It’s interesting to note that Noah wasn’t a famous figure by birth but emerged as the only righteous man in a wickedly corrupt age—a reminder that one's worth isn't determined by their status but by integrity and resolute faith.

The Ark itself can be understood in many dimensions—more than just a literal boat for survival, it serves as a symbol of shelter and refuge. Throughout history, countless documents and stories have paralleled this idea of seeking places of safety in times of turmoil, from cave dwellers to modern communities coming together.

So next time you consider the story of those eight individuals—Noah, his sons, and their wives—remember there’s not just a flood but also an invitation to rethink survival, family, and our role in safeguarding chosen causes and values through the storms of life.