Miriam
Miriam in the Bible — sister of Moses (EXO 15:20). Miriam belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 5 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “rebellion”
Profile
- Gender
- female
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 5 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 4 connections
Biography
Miriam was a female member of the tribe of Levi, uniquely known as the sister of Moses and Aaron. Her role in the biblical narrative is closely tied to her family and her leadership among the Israelites during the Exodus. Scripture highlights her as a significant figure in Israel's early history without additional personal notes.
Names & Titles
The name Miriam carries several possible meanings in Hebrew, including 'bitterness,' 'plump one,' 'wished-for child,' and 'one who loves or is loved.' These meanings reflect the depth and complexity of her character as presented in Scripture, though the name itself was not given by God.
Family
Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron, and she was likely the daughter of Amram and Jochebed. These relationships establish her as part of the Levitical family central to God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt as recorded in Exodus and Numbers.
Significance
Miriam is significant in the biblical account as a prophetess and a leader who played a vital role in Israel's deliverance. She demonstrated faithful service through her leadership in worship following the crossing of the Red Sea. However, her story also includes a cautionary element, as she faced consequences for challenging Moses' authority, illustrating the dangers of pride even among God's chosen servants.
Key Events
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- מִרְיָ֨ם
- Transliteration
- mirəyam
- Meaning
- [variously] bitterness; plump one; wished-for child; one who loves or is loved
- Greek
- Μαριαμ
- Reference
- EXO 15:20
- Strong's
- H4813
Family & Relationships (4)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Miriam in the Bible?
Miriam was a female member of the tribe of Levi, uniquely known as the sister of Moses and Aaron. Her role in the biblical narrative is closely tied to her family and her leadership among the Israelites during the Exodus. Scripture highlights her as a significant figure in Israel's early history without additional personal notes.
What does the name Miriam mean?
The name Miriam means “rebellion” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.