Bible Figure
Miriam
sister of Moses and Aaron
Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron, a prophetess who helped lead Israel and celebrated the Exodus at the Red Sea.
Biography
As a girl, Miriam watched from a distance when the infant Moses was placed among the reeds of the Nile and arranged for their mother to nurse him after Pharaoh's daughter found him. After Israel crossed the Red Sea, Miriam the prophetess led the women with tambourines and dancing in praise of the Lord. Numbers 12 records Miriam and Aaron speaking against Moses; God defended Moses' unique role, and Miriam was struck with a skin disease. Moses prayed for her, and the camp waited seven days until she was restored. Miriam died at Kadesh during the wilderness journey. Micah later names Moses, Aaron, and Miriam together as leaders God sent before Israel.
Biblical Significance
Miriam was a prominent woman in the Exodus generation, associated with preservation, worship, prophecy, and leadership. Her discipline also underscores God's defense of the calling entrusted to Moses.