Two Miriams from Ancient Times
In the ancient and modern world where feminine wisdom has often been ignored, the two Biblical Miriams attract attention. The first Miriam, Moses’ sister, speaks impeccably when she writes an inspired victory tune: “…In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling.” Miriam’s namesake, centuries later, also utters inspired praise in her Christmas Magnificat: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…From now on all generations will call me blessed.”

Learning wisdom the hard way, both Miriams make frustrating assumptions in their lifetimes. When Aaron and Miriam dislike their brother’s dark bride, the softer minstrel earns a generous patch of white, leprous skin. Similarly at a wedding in Cana, Miriam of Nazareth discovers that she shouldn’t nudge her son to convert water into wine. His reply stands her up straight: “Dear woman, why do you involve me?...My time has not yet come.” Recognizing her need to be more of a disciple than a mother, Mary pivots toward the servants and walks away with a whispered instruction: “Do whatever he tells you.”

It is difficult not to take things personally. In one stretch of wilderness, Miriam and Aaron offer a jealous lament about their second-class roles in the fledgling nation: “‘Has the Lord spoken only though Moses?...Hasn’t he also spoken through us?’ And…the anger of the Lord burned against them.” In a similar squabble, Jesus gets interrupted during one of his public talks. According to the story: “Someone told him: ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.’ He replied: ‘Who is my mother and who are my brothers?’ Pointing to his disciples, he said: …‘Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.’”

Both Miriams knew the Judaeo-Christian ethic to do their best. The Egyptian-born Miriam had often heard her brother teach: “Bring the best…to the house of the Lord.” The later Miriam would eventually flee to Egypt with a holy infant; years later, Mary would offer her best loyalty on the black night of Golgotha, then devote herself to prayer in the morning of resurrection.