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)