THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
What can we derive from the passing of Mariam? What is its deeper significance, and how can we understand her death, particularly as it is noted to occur in the first month? We may consider Moses as a representation of the law and Aaron as a symbol of the priesthood, while Mariam embodies the rightful service of God. As proclaimed by the prophet, “I have sent Moses, Aaron, and Mariam before thee” (Micah 6:4). This clearly positions her alongside Moses and Aaron in Israel's leadership. Through the wisdom of Moses and the leadership of Aaron, Israel acquired the means to serve God in a tangible form. The necessity of Mariam alongside Moses and Aaron becomes evident when we reflect on the events following their deliverance from Pharaoh’s army.
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After they had perished in the Red Sea, Moses composed a song of praise, and the women, filled with joy, went forth, with Mariam taking her tambourine, as recorded (Ex. 15:20), joining her powerful voice to their celebration. In their acts of worship lies the profound insight of true understanding. The presence of both the law, personified by Moses, and the ministry of Mariam, indicative of a service that is in shadows and symbols, together proclaim the majestic sovereignty of God. The nature of their song and the sound of the tambourine highlight this truth. Thus, it is fitting to view Mariam as the embodiment of the ministering aspect of the law, just as Moses represents the law itself and Aaron embodies the priesthood.