Miriam

Technical Profile

Name Meaning: Hebrew Miryām (uncertain; often linked with “beloved” or “rebellion,” but not definitive)
Period/Era: Patriarchal Period to Exodus generation
Main References: Exodus 2; Exodus 15:20–21; Numbers 12; Numbers 20:1; Deuteronomy 24:9; Micah 6:4
Key Connections: Sister of Moses and Aaron; associated with Israel’s leadership during the Exodus and wilderness journey

Who was Miriam?

Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron and is identified as a prophetess.
She appears first in the narrative of Moses’ infancy and later in Israel’s Exodus worship.
She functioned as a recognized female leader within Israel during the wilderness period.

Key Events & Achievements

Watching over Moses: She monitored the infant Moses by the Nile and facilitated his return to his mother as a nurse (Exodus 2:4–8).
Leading worship after deliverance: She led Israel’s women with tambourines and singing after the crossing of the sea (Exodus 15:20–21).
Discipline and restoration: She was struck with leprosy after opposing Moses and was restored after intercession and a period of exclusion from the camp (Numbers 12:1–15).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Miriam’s life reflects how recognized leadership in Israel included both public praise and accountability within the covenant community.

Key Verse

"Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women went out after her with tambourines and dancing." — Exodus 15:20, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. What role is Miriam identified with in addition to being the sister of Moses and Aaron?

2. After the crossing of the sea, what did Miriam lead Israel’s women to do?