Topical Bible: Miracles: Catalogue of Miriam's Leprosy

◄ Miracles: Catalogue of Miriam's Leprosy ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

The account of Miriam's leprosy is a significant event in the biblical narrative, illustrating both the consequences of disobedience and the power of divine intervention. This miracle is recorded in the Book of Numbers and serves as a profound lesson on the importance of humility, respect for divinely appointed leadership, and the mercy of God.

Biblical Account

The account of Miriam's leprosy is found in Numbers 12. Miriam, along with her brother Aaron, spoke against Moses because of his Cushite wife. Their criticism was not merely about Moses' marriage but also reflected a challenge to his unique prophetic authority. Numbers 12:2 records their words: "Has the LORD spoken only through Moses? Has He not also spoken through us?" This questioning of Moses' leadership was met with immediate divine response.

Divine Intervention

The LORD heard their complaint and summoned Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to the Tent of Meeting. There, He descended in a pillar of cloud and rebuked Aaron and Miriam for their presumption. Numbers 12:6-8 highlights God's defense of Moses: "Listen to My words: When a prophet of the LORD is among you, I reveal Myself to him in visions, I speak to him in dreams. But this is not so with My servant Moses; he is faithful in all My house. I speak with him face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you not afraid to speak against My servant Moses?"

The Miracle of Leprosy

As a consequence of her actions, Miriam was struck with leprosy. Numbers 12:10 states, "As the cloud lifted from above the Tent, suddenly Miriam became leprous, white as snow." This immediate affliction was a visible sign of God's displeasure and served as a severe punishment for her rebellion.

Intercession and Healing

Aaron, recognizing the gravity of the situation, pleaded with Moses to intercede on Miriam's behalf. Numbers 12:11-12 records Aaron's plea: "Please, my lord, do not hold against us the sin we have so foolishly committed. Do not let her be like a stillborn infant whose flesh is half consumed when he comes out of his mother's womb."

Moses, demonstrating his humility and compassion, cried out to the LORD, "O God, please heal her!" (Numbers 12:13). The LORD responded to Moses' intercession, but He required that Miriam be confined outside the camp for seven days as a period of shame and purification, after which she was healed and restored to the community (Numbers 12:14-15).

Theological Significance

The miracle of Miriam's leprosy underscores several key theological themes. Firstly, it highlights the sanctity of God's chosen leaders and the seriousness of challenging divine authority. Secondly, it demonstrates the power of intercessory prayer, as Moses' plea was instrumental in Miriam's healing. Lastly, it reflects God's justice tempered with mercy, as Miriam's punishment was both a corrective measure and an opportunity for restoration.

This event serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, obedience, and the recognition of God's sovereign choices in leadership. It also illustrates the compassionate nature of God, who, despite His righteous judgment, is willing to forgive and restore those who repent.

Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 12:10-15
And the cloud departed from off the tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam became leprous, white as snow: and Aaron looked on Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous.
Nave's Topical Index