MIRIAM, The Sister of Moses
The story of Miriam can be found in several books of the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament.
1. Exodus: Miriam first appears in the Book of Exodus. In Exodus 2:1-10, although she is not named, she is traditionally understood to be the sister who watches over her baby brother Moses as he floats in a basket on the Nile River. She later approaches Pharaoh's daughter, who discovers Moses, and offers to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child, cleverly reuniting Moses with his biological mother.
2. Exodus 15:20-21: Miriam is explicitly named as a prophetess and is celebrated for leading the women of Israel in song and dance after the crossing of the Red Sea, praising God for the miraculous deliverance from the Egyptians.
3. Numbers 12: This chapter tells the story of Miriam and Aaron speaking against Moses because of his Cushite wife. As a result, Miriam is stricken with leprosy, a punishment from God, and is shut out of the camp for seven days. Moses intercedes on her behalf, and she is healed, but this event underscores the dynamics and tensions within the leadership of the Israelites.
4. Numbers 20:1: Miriam's death is briefly mentioned as the Israelites are in the Wilderness of Zin. Her passing marks the end of an era, as she was a central figure during the Exodus journey.
In a small, bustling village along the banks of the Nile River, young Miriam lived with her family. As the eldest sister, she was naturally caring and protective, especially of her younger brothers, Aaron and the baby Moses. Miriam had a keen sense of adventure and a heart full of courage, which often led her into new experiences and stories that she loved to share with her family.
Life was not easy for Miriam and her family. The Pharaoh of Egypt had grown fearful of the Hebrews and ordered that every newborn Hebrew boy be cast into the Nile. When Moses was born, the family was filled with love and fear. To protect him, they crafted a tiny basket and laid him gently inside, setting it afloat on the river with a whispered prayer.
Miriam, brave and watchful, followed the basket as it drifted along the river's edge, her heart pounding with each ripple. She watched as Pharaoh's daughter discovered Moses and, moved by the child's cries, decided to adopt him. Seizing the moment, Miriam approached her with poise and suggested, "Shall I find a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby for you?" Her cleverness reunited Moses with his mother, who would care for him until he was old enough to live in the palace.
As years passed, Miriam grew into a wise and spirited young woman, while Moses, raised in the luxury of the Pharaoh's palace, never forgot his roots. The bond between the siblings remained strong, bound by shared dreams of freedom for their people.
When Moses returned from exile, transformed and carrying a divine mission, Miriam stood by his side. Together with Aaron, they confronted Pharaoh, demanding the release of their people. Miriam's unwavering spirit was a source of strength for the Israelites, who looked to her as a beacon of hope.
Finally, the night of liberation came. With hearts full of courage, the Israelites followed Moses out of Egypt, guided by the promise of a new beginning. As they reached the banks of the Red Sea, fear threatened to overtake them, but Miriam's voice rang out, clear and strong, encouraging them to trust in the path laid before them.
In a miraculous moment, the sea parted, and the Israelites crossed safely to the other side. Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, Miriam led the women in a triumphant song of praise, her tambourine echoing the rhythm of their hearts.
Miriam's story, from the banks of the Nile to the wilderness of freedom, was a testament to the enduring power of faith, resilience, and love. Her life reminded the Israelites—and continues to remind us today—that true leadership is rooted in compassion and that every voice, no matter how small, can make a profound difference in the world.
DISCUSSION STARTERS
How did Miriam's actions as a young girl, specifically watching over Moses and approaching Pharaoh's daughter, demonstrate her courage and resourcefulness? What can we learn from her bravery in times of crisis?
In what ways does Miriam’s story highlight the important roles women played in biblical history? How can her leadership inspire contemporary discussions about women’s roles in faith communities today?
If you were to draw parallels between Miriam's journey and your own life, what aspects resonate with you the most? How can her story inspire you to take action in your own circumstances?
PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the lives of those who have walked before us, especially for women like Miriam, who embodied courage and faith in the face of adversity. Thank You for her unwavering spirit and her willingness to stand up for her family and her people.
Lord, just as Miriam watched over her brother Moses, help us to be vigilant and protective over those You have entrusted to us. Grant us the wisdom to act with courage when faced with challenges, and the discernment to approach difficult situations with grace and love.
In moments of uncertainty, may we draw strength from Miriam’s faith. Help us to be leaders in our communities, encouraging others through our words and actions. May we celebrate our victories together, just as Miriam led the Israelite women in joyful song and dance after their deliverance.
Thank You, Lord, for the lessons we can learn from Miriam’s life. Help us to walk in faith, embodying her spirit of resilience and leadership in our own journeys.
In Your holy name, we pray.
Amen.