The answer is: 4

Rev 6 vs 1-8

In Revelation chapter 6, the four horsemen reveal significant themes such as conquest, war, famine, and death. They dramatically symbolize the tumultuous events leading to the end of the world as we know it. Let's take a closer look at these gallant riders.

First up, we have the white horse and its rider, whom many interpret as a symbol of conquest or false messiahs. This figure rides with a bow and a crown, which evokes ideas of power and dominion, drawing parallels with Christ's eventual victory over evil. However, it also relays a message of deception—we must remain vigilant about who we trust.

Next, on the red horse, we find the rider representing war. This fiery equestrian carries a sword and signifies conflict and bloodshed. It's interesting to note that throughout history, periods of significant upheaval often coincide with rampant violence, challenging us to think critically about how easily humanity can fall into chaos.

The black horse follows, carrying its rider of famine. Here we see him balancing a set of scales, reminding us that resource distribution and food security profoundly impact communities. The echo of this often leads us to consider our efforts to alleviate hunger in today's world—a theme still all too relevant.

Finally, the pale horse rounds out this quartet, with Death riding on it. Accompanied by Hades, this horseman encapsulates production's and existence's fragility. It's a sobering reminder of mortality and our interconnectedness with one another in facing life’s ultimate reality.

These four horsemen collectively symbolize the trials and tribulations of human existence, posing fundamental questions about morality, justice, and our actions in the world. So, next time you read this part of Revelation, remember it’s not just about the end—it’s about our journey and choices here and now!