Top 10 Greatest Women in the Bible

1 Mary Mary was the mother of Jesus. As a young woman, she was visited by an angel and told she would conceive and give birth to the Son of God. Her unwavering faith and acceptance of her role make her a venerated figure in Christianity.

2 Deborah Deborah was a prophetess and a judge of ancient Israel. Her wisdom and guidance were instrumental in leading a military victory against the Canaanites. She is a symbol of female leadership and courage in the face of oppression.

3 Judith Judith was a devout widow who lived in the town of Bethulia. When her town was besieged by the Assyrians, she bravely infiltrated the enemy camp and beheaded the general Holofernes. Her heroism and cunning saved her people from destruction.

4 Esther Esther was a Jewish woman who became Queen of Persia. When a plot was hatched to exterminate the Jews, Esther bravely used her position to intervene with the king, ultimately saving her people. Her story is celebrated during the Jewish holiday of Purim.

5 Mary Magdalene Mary Magdalene was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. She was present at his crucifixion and is believed to be the first person to witness his resurrection. Mary Magdalene is a prominent figure in early Christianity and a symbol of devotion and redemption.

6 Eve Eve is recognized in the Bible as the first woman ever created. God formed her from the rib of Adam, the first man, to be his companion. Eve is most well-known for her role in the Garden of Eden, where she was persuaded by the serpent to eat the forbidden fruit, leading to the expulsion of both Adam and Eve from Paradise.

7 Ruth Ruth was a Moabite woman who converted to Judaism and chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after her husband's death. Her loyalty and kindness are exemplified when she follows Naomi back to Bethlehem. Ruth's decision to glean in the fields of Boaz leads to her eventual marriage to him and her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

8 Miriam Miriam was the older sister of Moses and Aaron, playing a vital role in the Israelites' liberation from Egypt. She was a prophetess, leading the women in song and dance after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Miriam's actions demonstrate her strong faith, leadership qualities, and musical talents.

9 Naomi Naomi was the mother-in-law of Ruth and Orpah, who experienced the tragic loss of her husband and two sons. Despite her bitterness and grief, she showed resilience in returning to her homeland of Bethlehem. Naomi's wise guidance ultimately led to Ruth's marriage to Boaz, bringing restoration and hope to their family lineage.

10 Delilah Delilah was a Philistine woman who is known for her role in the story of Samson. She betrayed Samson by discovering the secret of his strength and using it to deliver him to his enemies. Her actions led to Samson's downfall and capture.

The Contenders

11 Abigail Abigail was the intelligent and beautiful wife of Nabal, a foolish and wealthy man. Her wisdom and diplomacy prevented David from taking revenge on her husband for his disrespect. After Nabal's death, Abigail became David's wife, known for her discernment and ability to intervene in potentially dangerous situations.

12 Sarah Sarah was the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac. She was known for her beauty and her faith in God. Despite her initial disbelief, Sarah gave birth to a son in her old age, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham and establishing the covenant lineage of the nation of Israel.

13 Rebecca Rebecca was the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau. She was known for her kindness and hospitality, as demonstrated when she offered water to Abraham's servant and his camels. Rebecca's resourcefulness and determination played a key role in securing Jacob's blessing.

14 Jael Jael was a Kenite woman who appears in the Book of Judges. During a battle between the Israelites and the Canaanites, she demonstrated courage and cunning by killing Sisera, the Canaanite general. Jael's act was instrumental in helping Israel secure victory.

15 Elizabeth Elizabeth was the mother of John the Baptist and a relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Despite her old age, she miraculously conceived a son. Her faith and her recognition of Mary as the mother of the Messiah are celebrated in the Bible.

16 Anne Anne was the mother of the prophet Samuel. Her name means "grace" or "favor," which reflects God's blessing upon her. After years of sorrow due to her barrenness, Anne's heartfelt prayers were answered, and she dedicated her son Samuel to serving God throughout his life.

17 Rachel Rachel was the beloved wife of Jacob and mother of Joseph and Benjamin. Known for her beauty, she endured a long wait and a difficult journey before bearing children. Rachel's story explores themes of love, family rivalry, and the persistence of faith.

18 Lilith

19 Queen of Sheba

20 Leah Leah was the older sister of Rachel and Jacob's first wife. Though not Jacob's initial choice, she bore him many sons, including Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. Leah's story highlights themes of societal expectations, complex family relationships, and God's ability to work through unexpected circumstances.

21 Huldah Huldah was a prophetess during the reign of King Josiah in Judah. Huldah played a significant role in the religious reforms of Josiah's reign by verifying the authenticity of a scroll discovered in the temple. Her pronouncements helped guide the king's actions and set the stage for religious renewal in Judah.

22 Rahab Rahab was a Canaanite prostitute who lived in Jericho. Rahab protected the Israelite spies sent by Joshua and helped them escape the city. In return, she and her family were spared when the Israelites conquered Jericho. Rahab's story is a reminder of God's mercy and the importance of faith.

23 Saint Anne