When we think of prophets, many of us remember names like Moses, Elijah, or Isaiah. These men carried God’s word with power and changed the course of history. But the Bible also shines a light on women who were chosen by God as His messengers. These women are called prophetesses in the Bible.
Their stories are inspiring, because they show us that God’s voice is not limited to one gender or position. He can raise a woman in the wilderness, an old widow in the temple, or even a wife in her home to speak His truth. Some prophetesses stood as leaders and brought victory, while others became examples of warning.
The Bible mentions seven prophetesses clearly. Women like Miriam, Deborah, Huldah, Isaiah’s wife, and Anna were faithful to God’s call. On the other hand, Noadiah and Jezebel of Thyatira are remembered for negative reasons. Together, their lives give us lessons about faith, courage, obedience, and also the danger of turning away from God.
As we explore these prophetesses one by one, let us open our hearts to learn how God works through women, how He speaks through them, and how their faith can still encourage us today.
Who Were the Prophetesses in the Bible?
In the Bible, a prophetess is simply a female prophet one who speaks God’s message to His people. Just as there were many men chosen as prophets, there were also female prophets in the Bible. These women prophets in the Bible were given wisdom, courage, and spiritual insight to guide nations, encourage God’s people, and sometimes warn them of judgment.
Some prophetesses, like Miriam, Deborah, Huldah, and Anna, stood as faithful examples of obedience and prayer. Others, like Noadiah and Jezebel of Thyatira, serve as warnings against pride, false teaching, and rebellion. Together, their lives remind us that God can use both men and women to carry His word, and that His truth always calls for faithfulness.
List of Prophetesses in the Bible
1. Miriam – The Prophetess of Praise
Role in Moses’ Story (Exodus 2:4–7)
Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron. When baby Moses was placed in the basket on the Nile, it was Miriam who stood nearby with courage. She quickly spoke to Pharaoh’s daughter and arranged for Moses’ own mother to nurse him. Through her boldness, God protected the child who would later deliver Israel.
Leading Women in Worship (Exodus 15:20–21)
After the crossing of the Red Sea, Miriam took a timbrel in her hand and led the women of Israel in joyful song: “Sing to the Lord, for He is highly exalted; both horse and rider He has hurled into the sea.” She became a prophetess of praise, reminding the people that every victory belongs to God.
Reflection: Miriam’s life teaches us courage in crisis and the power of worship. Her leadership shows how praise can strengthen faith in times of deliverance.
2. Deborah – Judge and Prophetess of Israel
A Judge with Wisdom (Judges 4:4–5)
Deborah was a prophetess and judge who sat under the Palm of Deborah, where people came to seek her wisdom. She was known for her fairness and godly insight, guiding Israel in a time of oppression.
Prophecy of Victory (Judges 4:9)
When Israel was threatened by Sisera, Deborah called Barak to lead an army. She prophesied that God would deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman. The prophecy was fulfilled when Jael struck down Sisera.
Song of Deborah and Barak (Judges 5)
After the victory, Deborah and Barak lifted a song of praise to the Lord, recounting His mighty deliverance.
Reflection: Deborah was a spiritual mother of Israel. Her wisdom, courage, and leadership brought peace for forty years. She reminds us that God raises leaders to guide His people into freedom.
3. Isaiah’s Wife – A Prophetic Sign
Mother of Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz (Isaiah 8:3–4)
Isaiah’s wife is called a prophetess. She gave birth to a son whose name, Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz, was a prophetic sign of coming judgment.
Reflection: Though the Bible records little about her, her role shows that God can speak through family, generations, and even the naming of children. Every life can carry a message from Him.
4. Huldah – The Prophetess of King Josiah’s Reforms
Enquired by the King (2 Kings 22:14–20)
When the Book of the Law was found in the temple, King Josiah sent his officials to Huldah to seek God’s word. She faithfully declared both judgment for Judah’s sins and mercy for Josiah’s humility.
Prophecy of Judgment and Mercy
Her prophecy confirmed that disaster would come upon Judah, but Josiah would be spared because he humbled himself before the Lord.
Reflection: Huldah’s wisdom shaped one of Israel’s greatest revivals. Her courage reminds us that God uses women to bring truth that can reform nations.
5. Noadiah – A False Prophetess in Nehemiah’s Time
Opposition to God’s Work (Nehemiah 6:14)
Noadiah opposed Nehemiah during the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. Instead of strengthening God’s people, she tried to intimidate and discourage them.
Reflection: Noadiah’s example warns us that not every prophetess is true. We must use discernment and hold fast to God’s Word.
6. Anna – The Prophetess Who Recognized the Messiah
Life of Prayer and Fasting (Luke 2:36–37)
Anna was a widow who spent decades worshipping God in the temple with fasting and prayer. Her devotion never faded, even in old age.
Witness of Jesus’ Birth (Luke 2:38)
When Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple, Anna recognized Him as the promised Messiah. She praised God and spoke about Him to all who were waiting for redemption.
Reflection: Anna’s life teaches us patience and faithfulness. God honors those who wait on Him with prayer and hope.
7. Jezebel of Thyatira – A False Prophetess in the Early Church
Warning in Revelation (Revelation 2:20)
In the church of Thyatira, a woman called Jezebel claimed to be a prophetess but led believers into sin and idolatry. Jesus Himself warned the church against her false teachings.
Reflection: Jezebel’s story is a warning for the church today. We must guard against false teaching and remain faithful to Christ alone.
Lessons from the Prophetesses in the Bible
The stories of prophetesses in the Bible teach us that God calls both men and women to deliver His word. These women prophets in the Bible remind us that obedience, prayer, and faith are the marks of a true servant of God. At the same time, the warning of false prophetesses shows the importance of testing every spirit, as 1 John 4:1 instructs, so that we may discern truth from deception.
FAQs: About Prophetesses in the Bible
Who are the seven prophetesses in the Bible?
The seven prophetesses mentioned in Jewish tradition are Sarah, Miriam, Deborah, Hannah, Abigail, Huldah, and Esther, each used by God in unique ways.
How many female prophets are in the Bible?
The Bible records several women as prophetesses, including Miriam, Deborah, Huldah, and Anna. Together, they show how God speaks through both men and women.
Who was the female prophet in the Bible?
iriam, the sister of Moses, is the first woman called a prophetess in the Bible (Exodus 15:20). She led the people in worship after crossing the Red Sea.
Conclusion – Women of Faith and Prophecy
The prophetesses in the Bible remind us that God’s voice is not limited by gender, culture, or position. Whether it was Miriam leading in the wilderness, Huldah giving counsel in the palace, or Anna praying in the temple each shows us that God honors those who listen and obey His call. Their lives encourage us to walk in faith, remain prayerful, and boldly declare God’s truth
What do you think?
Which prophetess in the Bible inspires you the most? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below we’d love to hear from you
“Just like the prophetesses in the Bible guided God’s people, these 25 Bible verses empower women of faith to find strength and courage.”