Old Testament · The Exodus

Miriam

Who was Miriam?

Miriam was the prophetess and sister of Moses who led Israel in song after the crossing of the Red Sea.

RoleProphetess, sister of Moses and Aaron
EraThe Exodus
BrothersMoses and Aaron
RoleProphetess and song leader
Known forThe song at the Red Sea

As a girl, Miriam watched over the basket holding her baby brother Moses and cleverly arranged for their own mother to nurse him in Pharaoh’s house.

After Israel crossed the Red Sea, Miriam took a tambourine and led the women in dancing and song, celebrating God’s victory. She is called a prophetess and a leader of the people.

She also stumbled — challenging Moses’ authority and being struck briefly with leprosy — a reminder that even leaders stand under God.

Key verses BSB · Public Domain (CC0)
Exodus 2:4 “And his sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him.” Exodus 15:20 “Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing.”
Related people
MosesAaron
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Original BibleDawn profile. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy. Scripture quoted from the public-domain Berean Standard Bible.