“And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.”
Context: Exodus 15:20 is part of the song of Moses and the Israelites after their deliverance from Egypt. The entire chapter of Exodus 15 records this song, often referred to as the “Song of Moses” or the “Song of Miriam.” The song celebrates the victory of God over the Egyptians and His faithfulness to His people.
Miriam: Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron. She is identified here as a prophetess, which suggests that she had a special role in communicating God’s messages. Miriam had witnessed the miraculous events of the Exodus, including the parting of the Red Sea, and she played a significant role in the Israelites’ journey.
Timbrels and Dances: In Exodus 15:20, Miriam took a timbrel (a musical instrument similar to a tambourine) in her hand. It was a common instrument used by women during joyful celebrations and worship. As Miriam led the women, they followed her with timbrels and dances, expressing their joy and gratitude for God’s deliverance.
Worship and Celebration: Miriam’s actions, along with the women, reflect their response of worship and celebration. They acknowledged and praised God for His mighty acts and deliverance from Egypt. The use of music, singing, and dancing in their worship was a way to express their gratitude and joy.
Role of Women: Miriam’s leadership and the participation of the women in this celebration highlight the importance of women in God’s plan. Miriam’s role as a prophetess and the involvement of the women show that both men and women were valued and had a significant role to play in the worship and service of God.
Lessons for Us: Exodus 15:20 reminds us of the importance of celebrating and praising God for His faithfulness and deliverance in our lives. It teaches us that worship can take various forms, including music, singing, and dancing, as long as it is done in a spirit of reverence and gratitude.
Application: We can apply this passage by cultivating a heart of worship and finding ways to express our gratitude to God for His deliverance and faithfulness in our lives. Whether through music, singing, or other forms of creative expression, we can celebrate God’s goodness and share our joy with others.
Remember to always consider the broader context of the Bible and seek further study and understanding of the Scriptures to gain a comprehensive understanding of God’s message.
