Topical Bible: The Anger of God: Exemplified Against: Aaron and Miriam

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Context and Background:

The anger of God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often serving as a divine response to sin, disobedience, or rebellion against His commandments. In the case of Aaron and Miriam, God's anger is directed towards them due to their challenge against Moses' leadership, which was divinely appointed. This incident is recorded in the Book of Numbers, specifically in chapter 12.

Biblical Account:

In Numbers 12:1-2 , the narrative begins with Aaron and Miriam speaking against Moses because of the Cushite woman he had married. They questioned Moses' unique position as God's chosen leader, saying, "Has the LORD spoken only through Moses? Has He not also spoken through us?" This challenge to Moses' authority was not merely a personal affront but an act of rebellion against God's established order.

Divine Response:

God's immediate response to this insubordination is swift and decisive. Numbers 12:4-5 states, "Suddenly the LORD said to Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, 'You three, come out to the Tent of Meeting.' So the three went out, and the LORD came down in a pillar of cloud, stood at the entrance to the Tent, and summoned Aaron and Miriam."

In the ensuing confrontation, God makes it clear that Moses holds a unique position among the prophets. Numbers 12:6-8 records God's words: "Hear now My words: If there is a prophet among you, I, the LORD, will reveal Myself to him in a vision; I will speak to him in a dream. 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?"

Manifestation of God's Anger:

The anger of the LORD was kindled against Aaron and Miriam, and He departed. As a direct consequence of God's anger, Miriam was struck with leprosy, turning her skin white as snow (Numbers 12:9-10). This physical affliction served as a tangible manifestation of divine displeasure and a severe rebuke for her actions.

Intercession and Restoration:

Moses, demonstrating his humility and compassion, intercedes for Miriam, pleading with God to heal her. Numbers 12:13 records Moses' prayer: "So Moses cried out to the LORD, 'O God, please heal her!'"

In response to Moses' intercession, God relents but insists on a period of separation for Miriam. Numbers 12:14-15 states, "But the LORD replied to Moses, 'If her father had but spit in her face, would she not be in disgrace for seven days? Let her be confined outside the camp for seven days; after that she may be brought back in.' So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on until she was brought back in."

Theological Implications:

This episode underscores the seriousness with which God regards His chosen leaders and the order He establishes. It serves as a warning against pride and rebellion, highlighting the importance of respecting God's appointments and the consequences of challenging His authority. The incident also illustrates God's justice tempered with mercy, as seen in His willingness to heal Miriam following Moses' intercession.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 12:9,10
And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Letter of the Church of Rome
... to come to all who believe in God and hope ... only faith but prophecy as well is
exemplified in this ... rid of all pretensions and arrogance and silliness and anger. ...
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