Topical Encyclopedia Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, holds a significant place in the biblical narrative as a prophetess and leader among the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt. Her life and contributions are chronicled in various passages of the Old Testament, highlighting her role in the deliverance of Israel and her influence within the community.Background and Early Life Miriam first appears in the biblical account during the early life of Moses. As the daughter of Amram and Jochebed, she is instrumental in the preservation of her brother Moses' life. When Pharaoh decreed the death of all Hebrew male infants, Miriam watched over the basket in which her mother placed Moses, ensuring his safety as he floated on the Nile River. Her quick thinking and courage are evident when she approaches Pharaoh's daughter, who discovers the child, and suggests her own mother as a nurse for the infant (Exodus 2:1-10). Role in the Exodus Miriam's prominence is further established during the Exodus from Egypt. After the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, she leads the women of Israel in a song of triumph and praise to the LORD, celebrating the deliverance from Pharaoh's army. This event is recorded in Exodus 15:20-21: "Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing. And Miriam sang back to them: 'Sing to the LORD, for He is highly exalted; the horse and rider He has thrown into the sea.'" Rebellion and Consequences Despite her leadership and prophetic role, Miriam's account also includes a moment of rebellion. In Numbers 12, she, along with Aaron, speaks against Moses because of his Cushite wife and questions his unique position as God's chosen leader. The LORD responds by affirming Moses' special relationship with Him and punishes Miriam with leprosy. Aaron pleads for her, and Moses intercedes on her behalf. The LORD commands that she be confined outside the camp for seven days, after which she is healed and restored to the community (Numbers 12:1-15). Death and Burial at Kadesh Miriam's death is recorded in Numbers 20:1, marking the end of her earthly journey. The passage states: "In the first month, the whole congregation of Israel entered the Wilderness of Zin, and the people stayed at Kadesh. There Miriam died and was buried." Her death occurs during the Israelites' wanderings in the wilderness, a period marked by trials and divine provision. The location of her burial, Kadesh, is significant as a place of encampment and a site of pivotal events in Israel's journey to the Promised Land. Miriam's life, marked by leadership, faith, and moments of human frailty, serves as a testament to God's use of individuals in His divine plan. Her account is a reminder of the importance of obedience, humility, and the consequences of challenging God's appointed leaders. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 20:1Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people stayed in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there. Nave's Topical Index Library From Kadesh to the Death of Moses. The Waters of Meribah Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Resources How many Marys are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.org Who was Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Epic: (Heroic Poetry): Miriam's Song Miriam: Died and is Buried at Kadesh Miriam: Jealous of Moses, Stricken With Leprosy, Healed on Account of the Intercession of Moses Miriam: Song of, After the Destruction of Pharaoh and his Army Miriam: Watched Over Moses when he Was in the Little Basket Related Terms |
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