Miriam: The Prophetess You Didn't See Coming

Reading through Exodus 15, one detail caught my attention: Miriam, the sister of Moses, is called a prophetess. In Exodus 15:20-21, she leads the Israelite women in song and dance after the crossing of the Red Sea. Her role in this moment stands out—not only because she leads a public act of worship, but because she is explicitly identified as a prophetess.

Women in the Ancient World: More Than a Supporting Cast?

There’s a common perception that women in ancient societies had little influence, particularly in religious or leadership roles. But this passage raises questions: How was Miriam viewed in her time? Was she an exception, or were there other women in similar roles? And what does her designation as a prophetess suggest about the standing of women in ancient Israelite society?

Prophets: Not Just a Boys’ Club

To understand this better, it helps to consider what it meant to be a prophet in the biblical world. Prophets were individuals believed to communicate messages on behalf of the divine. While male prophets like Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah are more well-known, Miriam is not the only woman given this title. Other prophetesses in the Bible include Deborah (Judges 4:4), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14), and Anna (Luke 2:36). Their presence suggests that prophetic roles were not exclusively assigned to men.

Miriam’s Resume: From Nile Guardian to National Leader

Miriam’s role extends beyond this moment in Exodus 15. Earlier in the story, she ensures Moses' survival as an infant by watching over him when he is placed in the Nile and speaking to Pharaoh’s daughter (Exodus 2:4-8). Later, in Numbers 12, Miriam—along with Aaron—challenges Moses’ authority, which suggests she held a position of influence. Though she is punished in this instance, the fact that she speaks up at all is notable.

Leadership with an Asterisk

At the same time, Miriam’s presence in the text does not mean women held equal standing with men in ancient Israelite society. The broader social structure was still largely patriarchal, and most leadership positions were occupied by men. Yet figures like Miriam show that there were moments when women could hold significant roles, particularly in religious life.

Rethinking Ancient Gender Roles

This challenges the idea that ancient societies universally dismissed women’s contributions. Instead, it presents a more layered picture—one where women could sometimes hold authority, even if those moments were not the norm. The fact that Miriam's leadership is recorded suggests she had a lasting impact on the community.

One Word, Big Implications

Reading about Miriam in Exodus 15 raises larger questions about gender and authority in ancient times. Rather than assuming a rigid, one-dimensional past, it’s worth considering the complexities of historical societies and how figures like Miriam fit into them. A single word—"prophetess"—offers a glimpse into a world where gender roles may have been more nuanced than we often assume.