Miriam

*Miriam’s story is told in Exodus 2 & 15, Numbers 12 & 20

Who Is Miriam?

  • Older sister of Moses and Aaron.
  • Daughter of Amram and Jochebed, from the tribe of Levi.
  • Prophetess and a leader among Israelite women.

Strengths and Accomplishments

  • Wisdom and Quick Thinking: As a young girl, Miriam watched over baby Moses when he was placed in a basket in the Nile River. She quickly suggested a plan to Pharaoh’s daughter to have Moses’ mother nurse him (Exodus 2:1-10).
  • Leadership in Worship: Led the women of Israel in worship with a tambourine and dance after crossing the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20-21).
  • Prophetess: Recognized as a prophetess (Exodus 15:20).
  • Role in Exodus: Alongside Moses and Aaron, was instrumental in leading the Israelites out of Egypt.

Weaknesses and Mistakes

  • Rebellion and Criticism: Spoke against Moses regarding his Cushite wife, showing jealousy and questioning Moses’ unique relationship with God (Numbers 12:1-2).
  • Consequence of Her Mistake: Stricken with leprosy as punishment for her actions, although she was healed after Moses’ prayer and a seven-day isolation (Numbers 12:10-15).

Lessons from Her Life

  • Importance of Faith and Courage: Her quick thinking to save Moses demonstrates the importance of faith and courage in challenging times.
  • Role of Women in Faith: Her leadership in worship after the Red Sea crossing emphasizes the important roles women can play in spiritual matters.
  • Consequences of Jealousy and Rebellion: Her punishment shows the severe implications of questioning God’s chosen leadership and the pitfalls of jealousy.
  • Importance of Repentance: Her healing teaches us about the power of prayer, forgiveness, and repentance.

Key Verses (NIV Version)

  • “Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing.” (Exodus 15:20)
  • “Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite.” (Numbers 12:1)
  • “So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back.” (Numbers 12:15)