(story told in Exodus 2; 15; Numbers 12; 20)
Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron and played an important role in Israel’s story. When Moses was a baby, Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew boys to be killed. Miriam watched over her little brother as their mother placed him in a basket on the Nile River. When Pharaoh’s daughter found the baby, Miriam bravely stepped forward and offered to find a nurse—her own mother. Through her quick thinking, Moses was saved and raised safely.
Years later, after God delivered Israel from Egypt, Miriam’s faith shone again. When the Red Sea parted and the Israelites crossed on dry ground, she led the women in joyful song and dance, praising God for His victory over Pharaoh’s army. As a prophetess, she used her voice to encourage worship and celebrate God’s power.
However, Miriam also faced moments of weakness. In Numbers 12, she and Aaron spoke against Moses, questioning his leadership and criticizing him for marrying a foreign woman. God defended Moses, reminding them that He had chosen him for a unique role. As punishment, Miriam was struck with leprosy. When Moses prayed for her healing, God heard his prayer, and she was restored after seven days outside the camp.
Miriam later traveled with the Israelites through the wilderness as part of their leadership. She remained respected among the people until her death in the desert near Kadesh.
Miriam’s story shows both courage and humility. She began as a protective sister and became a leader in worship, yet she also learned the importance of honoring God’s chosen servants. Through her life, we see how God values both bold faith and a teachable heart.