The Story of Miriam: A Prophetess in the Old Testament
Author: Vanessa Rooney
Vanessa is an Australian LDS lifestyle blogger. Landed in Salt Lake City, Utah, from the sun kissed beaches of Bondi, Australia, Vanessa is a wife and mother of three children.
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Miriam is a central figure in the Old Testament, known for her courage, leadership, and worship. Her story unfolds alongside two of the greatest leaders in Israel’s history—her brothers, Moses and Aaron. As a prophetess, Miriam’s life highlights the roles of women in God’s plan and the power of faith, while also teaching us about the consequences of pride and the importance of repentance.
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Key Moments in Miriam’s Life
1. Miriam’s Role in Saving Moses (Exodus 2:1-10)
Miriam’s story begins with an act of bravery that would set the stage for Israel’s deliverance. During a time when Pharaoh had ordered the death of all male Hebrew infants, Miriam’s mother, Jochebed, placed her baby, Moses, in a basket on the Nile River. Miriam, likely a young girl at the time, watched over her brother as he floated among the reeds.
When Pharaoh’s daughter discovered the baby and decided to adopt him, Miriam approached her with remarkable courage and intelligence. She suggested finding a Hebrew woman to nurse the child, thus ensuring that Moses would be raised by his own mother during his early years.
Miriam’s quick thinking and courage remind us that even small acts of bravery can have a profound impact. Her role in saving Moses was pivotal in God’s plan to deliver Israel.
2. Miriam as a Worship Leader (Exodus 15:20-21)
After God miraculously parted the Red Sea and delivered the Israelites from the Egyptian army, Miriam led the women in a triumphant song of praise. She took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, dancing and singing, “Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea” (Exodus 15:21, NIV).
Miriam’s song is one of the earliest recorded acts of worship in the Bible and highlights her role as a spiritual leader. She used music and dance to unite the people in gratitude and celebration.
Worship is a powerful expression of faith. Miriam’s example encourages us to praise God not just in private but as a way to inspire and unite others.
3. Miriam’s Challenge to Moses (Numbers 12:1-15)
While Miriam is remembered for her leadership and courage, her story also includes a humbling lesson. Along with Aaron, Miriam challenged Moses’ authority, questioning why God had chosen him as the primary leader of Israel. Their criticism may have stemmed from jealousy, as they claimed, “Has the Lord spoken only through Moses? Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” (Numbers 12:2, NIV).
God’s response was swift and severe. He called Miriam, Aaron, and Moses to the tent of meeting and affirmed Moses’ unique role as His chosen servant. As a consequence of her actions, Miriam was struck with leprosy. However, Moses interceded on her behalf, and after seven days of isolation, God healed her.
Miriam’s story reminds us of the dangers of pride and the need for humility in leadership. It also illustrates the power of intercession and God’s willingness to restore those who repent.
4. Miriam’s Death and Legacy (Numbers 20:1, Micah 6:4)
Miriam died in Kadesh, in the wilderness, during the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land. Her death is briefly noted in Numbers 20:1, but her legacy is honored in Micah 6:4, where God lists her alongside Moses and Aaron as leaders He sent to deliver Israel.
Despite her mistakes, Miriam is remembered as a prophetess and a key figure in Israel’s history. Her life demonstrates that even flawed individuals can play significant roles in God’s plan.
God values faithfulness and repentance. Miriam’s story shows that our mistakes do not define us; instead, it is how we respond to God’s correction that shapes our legacy.
Themes in Miriam’s Story
1. Courage and Leadership
Miriam’s role in saving Moses and leading the Israelites in worship highlights her courage and leadership. She acted decisively in critical moments, demonstrating faith in God’s plan.
2. Worship as a Form of Faith
Miriam’s song after the Red Sea crossing is a powerful example of worship as an act of gratitude and faith. Through music and dance, she led the people in celebrating God’s deliverance.
3. The Dangers of Pride
Miriam’s challenge to Moses serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride. It reminds us to approach our roles with humility and to respect God’s choices.
4. Grace and Redemption
God’s restoration of Miriam after her leprosy illustrates His mercy. Despite her shortcomings, she was remembered as a leader and a prophetess.
Reflective Questions
- How can Miriam’s courage in saving Moses inspire you to take bold action in your own life?
- In what ways can you use worship to strengthen your faith and encourage others?
- How do you handle situations where pride or jealousy might arise? What steps can you take to remain humble?
- What does Miriam’s story teach you about God’s grace and forgiveness?
Exploring the Life of Miriam
- Scripture Study:
- Exodus 2:1-10: What stands out to you about Miriam’s actions in protecting Moses?
- Exodus 15:20-21: How does worship play a role in your relationship with God?
- Numbers 12:1-15: What lessons do you learn from Miriam’s challenge to Moses?
- Personal Reflection:
- Write about a time when you acted courageously in a difficult situation.
- Reflect on an area of your life where pride may be affecting your actions or relationships. How can you seek God’s help to grow in humility?
- Creative Exercise:
- Draw or describe an image of Miriam leading the women in worship after crossing the Red Sea.
- Imagine yourself in Miriam’s shoes after being healed from leprosy. Write a journal entry expressing your thoughts and prayers.
- Memory Verse:
- Micah 6:4: “For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.”
Scriptural Deep Dive Into Miriam
Scripture Passage: Exodus 2:1-10
- Read the passage about Miriam’s role in saving Moses.
Questions to Reflect On:- What does this passage reveal about Miriam’s courage and quick thinking?
- How do you think Miriam’s actions were influenced by her faith?
- When have you had to take a bold action to protect or help someone?
Scripture Passage: Exodus 15:20-21
- Reflect on Miriam’s worship after the Red Sea crossing.
Questions to Reflect On:- How did Miriam use music and dance to inspire faith among the Israelites?
- Why is it important to worship God publicly as well as privately?
- How can worship strengthen your faith and uplift others in your community?
Scripture Passage: Numbers 12:1-15
- Explore Miriam’s challenge to Moses and God’s response.
Questions to Reflect On:- What do you think motivated Miriam and Aaron to question Moses’ leadership?
- What does God’s discipline of Miriam teach us about pride and jealousy?
- How do you approach situations where you feel overlooked or undervalued?
Personal Reflection
- Courage in Action:
Write about a time when you needed courage to face a challenging situation. How did your faith influence your decision? - Worship and Gratitude:
Reflect on a moment when you felt particularly grateful for God’s deliverance or blessings. How did you express your gratitude? - Humility and Repentance:
Think about a situation where pride or jealousy may have affected your actions. How can Miriam’s story guide you toward humility and reconciliation? - How can you show courage in your daily life, like Miriam did with Moses?
- What is one way you can lead others in worship, whether through prayer, music, or example?
- How can you work on fostering humility in your relationships and leadership roles?
Weekly Challenge
- Weekly Challenge:
- Identify one way you can courageously stand up for someone in need this week.
- Take time each day to worship God through song, prayer, or journaling.
- Reflect on an area where you need humility, and ask God for help in growing
Final Thoughts
Miriam’s story is a testament to God’s ability to use ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Her courage, leadership, and worship inspire us to trust God, act boldly, and praise Him in all circumstances. At the same time, her mistakes remind us of the importance of humility and repentance.
As you reflect on Miriam’s life, consider how her story applies to your own faith journey. What opportunities is God giving you to lead, worship, or grow in grace? Let Miriam’s legacy encourage you to embrace your role in His plan.
Want More? Read Our Series Of Women In The Old Testament
May God bless you,
Vanessa Rooney – LDS Mum
