Introduction
As a Christian woman (daughter of God!), I love to read about other women in the Bible. See their traits, learn from their achievements and their mistakes. But sometimes I didn’t know where to find the info. That’s why I decided to create a list of women in the Bible in chronological order.
The Bible is full of amazing stories spanning generations, highlighting important women in our faith. When it comes to women in the Bible, their stories are woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments, each reflecting God’s promises, His love, and His plan for redemption.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through a chronological list of women in the Bible, offering a deeper understanding of their unique roles and the historical events surrounding their lives.
Use this overview to easily find the particular woman you’re looking for, to understand their place in a historical timeline, get a quick understanding of what they are known for, or what the key lessons of their lives are.
And to make things even easier for you, I created a practical printable you can download and use for yourself or in group Bible studies. Just scroll down and get your list of women in the Bible in chronological order Pdf.
But first, before we dive into the list of females in the Bible, let’s look at the question how many women in the Bible?
How many women are listed in the Bible?
When you look at the Bible, particularly in its historical documents, you’ll see that women have been part of God’s plan from the very beginning. We, women of God, are important to God—we are not second-rated.
Women play a vital role in God’s plan, for example as prayer warriors, female warriors, and female preachers; or simply just as powerful women all by themselves!
As we dive into the chronological timeline of events, it’s clear that these women weren’t just passive participants but were key figures in the unfolding of God’s word. From the nation of Israel to the early church, the influence of these women is undeniable, and understanding their stories can bring a new depth to your Bible study.
The number of women listed in the Bible is significant, and their lives hold a great deal of value, both in the Old and New Testament. But can we stick a number to it?
How many women are named in the Bible?
The number of women explicitly named in the Bible varies depending on the specific version and interpretation, but estimates range from around 111 to 173. These are the women mentioned with their names. So, if you want to know all the women of the Bible, you may need to compare Bible translations.
Plus, there are tons of other women who aren’t named—even over 600!
What are the names of the women in the Bible?
This blog section will give you a complete list of the women of the Bible, presented in chronological order. Starting from the early pages of Genesis to the New Testament, where the life and ministry of Jesus Christ takes center stage.
As we walk through this timeline, you’ll notice the variety of women—each of them playing a key role in the events of the Bible. Through their faith, their courage, or their obedience to the Word of God.
These women were living creatures, each reflecting God’s goodness and character in different time periods, from the Jewish people in the Old Testament to the followers of Christ in the New Testament.
In a chronological plan like this, you can gain different perspectives on the Word of the Lord, looking at how these women shaped the history of the Bible and impacted future generations. Because of the importance of several women that are not explicitly named, I still include them in this list.
Next, you’ll find an overview of the women characters in the Bible, divided in a list of list of women in the Bible OT, and all female names in the Bible NT. In their stories, we can learn much about Biblical womanhood.
And just below all the names, you’ll find a link to get your copy of the women of the Bible Pdf.
List of women in the Old Testament
Here is a list of female bible characters that appear in the Old Testament:
1) Eve – (Genesis 3:20) The first woman, wife of Adam, created by God as a companion to him to live in the Garden of Eden (where she fell for the temptation of the snake); called the “mother of all living.”
Key Lesson: The choices we make can have lasting consequences, but God’s grace offers redemption.
2) Adah – (Genesis 4:19) Wife of Lamech ( one of his wives); mother of Jabal and Jubal, ancestors of nomads and musicians.
Key Lesson: God’s plan for creation includes diverse gifts and talents, even through unexpected means.
3) Zillah – (Genesis 4:19, 22) Lamech’s other wife; mother of Tubal-Cain, a forger of tools.
Key Lesson: God has a purpose for each person’s life, even if their role seems small or overlooked.
4) Naamah – (Genesis 4:22) Daughter of Zillah; noted for her name meaning “pleasant.”
Key Lesson: Our identity in Christ can be an example of God’s grace and beauty to others.
5) Sarah (Sarai) – (Genesis 17:15) Abraham’ s wife and mother of Isaac; originally Sarai, God renamed her Sarah to mean “princess.”
Key Lesson: Trusting in God’s timing leads to the fulfillment of His promises.
6) Hagar – (Genesis 16:1) Egyptian servant of Sarah; mother of Ishmael by Abraham.
Key Lesson: God sees and cares for us even in our moments of isolation and suffering.
7) Lot’s Wife – (Genesis 19:26) Unnamed woman who turned into a pillar of salt for looking back at Sodom’s destruction.
Key Lesson: Letting go of the past is necessary to fully embrace God’s future for us.
8) Lot’s Daughters – (Genesis 19:30–38) Two unnamed women who gave birth to Moab and Ammon through their father.
Key Lesson: Even in difficult circumstances, God’s grace can bring about His purposes.
9) Rebekah – (Genesis 24:15) Wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob; known for her generosity and faith.
Key Lesson: Listening to God and acting in faith can lead to God’s best plan for our lives.
10) Leah – (Genesis 29:16–35) First wife of Jacob; mother of six of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Key Lesson: God sees our worth even when others may not, and He can use our lives in amazing ways.
11) Rachel – (Genesis 29:6, 30:1–24) Jacob’s beloved wife; mother of Joseph and Benjamin.
Key Lesson: God’s plans are often bigger than our desires and timing, but His way is best.
12) Zilpah – (Genesis 30:9–13) Leah’s maidservant who bore Jacob’s sons Gad and Asher.
Key Lesson: God works through our circumstances, even when we feel unimportant or overlooked.
13) Bilhah – (Genesis 30:3–8) Rachel’s maidservant who bore Jacob’s sons Dan and Naphtali.
Key Lesson: God’s will often unfolds in unexpected ways and through people we may not expect.
14) Dinah – (Genesis 34:1) Daughter of Jacob and Leah; central to the tragic event involving Shechem.
Key Lesson: We must seek God’s protection and guidance in the face of life’s injustices.
15) Tamar (1) – (Genesis 38) Widow of Er’s (Judah’s son); bore twins by Judah and is in the lineage of Jesus.
Key Lesson: God’s redemptive work often involves difficult paths but always leads to His glory.
16) Asenath – (Genesis 41:45) Egyptian wife of Joseph and mother of Ephraim and Manasseh.
Key Lesson: Faithfulness in the midst of challenges leads to unexpected blessings.
17) Potiphar’s Wife – (Genesis 39) Unnamed woman who falsely accused Joseph of attempted assault.
Key Lesson: Standing firm in integrity and truth will lead to God’s protection and ultimate justice.
18) Jochebed – (Exodus 6:20) Mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam; preserved Moses’ life by placing him in a basket.
Key Lesson: God honors the faith and sacrifices of mothers who trust Him with their children’s futures.
19) Miriam – (Exodus 15:20) Sister of Moses and Aaron; a prophetess who led Israel’s women in worship after the Red Sea crossing.
Key Lesson: Leadership involves guiding others to worship and honor God with joy.
20) Pharaoh’s Daughter – (Exodus 2:5–10) Unnamed princess who adopted baby Moses from the Nile.
Key Lesson: God places us in situations to act with courage and compassion, fulfilling His plan.
21) Zipporah – (Exodus 2:21) Wife of Moses, daughter of Jethro; saved Moses’ life by circumcising their son.
Key Lesson: Standing firm in doing what is right, even in difficult situations, can bring deliverance.
22) Shelomith – (Leviticus 24:10–11) Mother of a blasphemer; the only woman named in Leviticus.
Key Lesson: Stand for righteousness even when facing shame or persecution.
23) Rahab – (Joshua 2:1) A prostitute in Jericho who hid Israelite spies; later part of Jesus’ genealogy.
Key Lesson: God’s mercy can transform anyone, regardless of their past, for His glorious purpose.
24) Achsa (Achsah) – (Joshua 15:16–19) Daughter of Caleb; requested and received land and water sources from her father.
Key Lesson: Boldness in asking for God’s blessings can lead to abundant provision.
25) Deborah – (Judges 4:4) Prophetess and judge of Israel; led Israel to victory alongside Barak.
Key Lesson: A courageous leader listens to God’s voice and steps into difficult tasks with His guidance.
26) Jael – (Judges 4:17–22) Woman who killed Sisera by driving a tent peg through his head.
Key Lesson: Sometimes, God’s victory comes in unexpected forms, and we must be prepared to act boldly.
27) Delilah – (Judges 16) Woman who betrayed Samson by discovering the secret of his strength.
Key Lesson: The choices we make can either align with or lead us away from God’s plan.
28) Naomi – (Ruth 1:2) Israelite woman who returned from Moab with her daughter-in-law Ruth; grandmother of King David.
Key Lesson: Even in hardship, God provides hope and new beginnings.
29) Ruth – (Ruth 1:4) A Moabite woman who became daughter-in-law of Naomi and remained loyal to her; became great-grandmother of David and an ancestor of Jesus.
Key Lesson: Loyalty, love, and faithfulness open the door for God’s purpose in our lives.
30) Orpah – (Ruth 1:4) Ruth’s sister-in-law; returned to her Moabite people after her husband’s death.
Key Lesson: Choosing the right path, even when it’s difficult, can lead to God’s blessings.
31) Hannah – (1 Samuel 1:2) Mother of Samuel the prophet; dedicated him to God after fervent prayer.
Key Lesson: Persistent prayer and dedication to God’s will can result in profound blessings.
32) Peninnah – (1 Samuel 1:2) Elkanah’s other wife who mocked Hannah for being childless.
Key Lesson: Faithfulness in God will bring peace, even when others mock or scorn us.
33) Michal – (1 Samuel 18:20–27) Daughter of Saul and wife of David; helped David escape Saul’s wrath but later despised him.
Key Lesson: Our relationship with God and His anointed leaders is more important than public opinion.
34) Abigail – (1 Samuel 25) Wife of Nabal, later married David; praised for her wisdom and intervention.
Key Lesson: Wisdom, humility, and a quick response to God’s guidance can turn a situation around.
35) Ahinoam – (1 Samuel 25:43) Another wife of David and mother of Amnon.
Key Lesson: Even when our role seems small, God can use us to fulfill His plan in surprising ways.
36) Bathsheba – (2 Samuel 11) Wife of Uriah whom David took as his own after adultery; mother of Solomon.
Key Lesson: God’s grace restores us, even after our failures, and enables us to fulfill His plans.
37) Tamar (2) – (2 Samuel 13) Daughter of David and sister of Absalom; victim of her half-brother Amnon’s abuse.
Key Lesson: God stands with those who suffer injustice and works in ways we may not immediately see.
38) Maacah – (2 Samuel 3:3) Wife of David and mother of Absalom.
Key Lesson: God uses both the quiet and loud voices in His kingdom for His purposes.
39) Rizpah – (2 Samuel 3:7, 21:10) Saul’s concubine who protected the bodies of her sons from desecration.
Key Lesson: Faithful love and courage in adversity can leave a legacy that speaks to God’s justice.
40) The Wise Woman of Tekoa – (2 Samuel 14:2–20) Unnamed woman used by Joab to bring about David’s reconciliation with Absalom.
Key Lesson: God often uses ordinary people to carry out His will and bring reconciliation.
41) The Wise Woman of Abel – (2 Samuel 20:14–22) Saved her city by negotiating with Joab and having Sheba executed.
Key Lesson: Wisdom and diplomacy can prevent disaster and bring peace.
42) Queen of Sheba – (1 Kings 10:1–13) Visited Solomon to test his wisdom and brought great wealth.
Key Lesson: Seeking wisdom and understanding can lead to fruitful relationships and prosperity.
43) Athaliah – (2 Kings 11:1) Mother of King Ahaziah; seized the throne and ruled Judah before being overthrown.
Key Lesson: Power-seeking for selfish gain leads to destruction, but God will preserve His rightful throne.
44) Huldah – (2 Kings 22:14) Prophetess who authenticated the Book of the Law during King Josiah’s reign.
Key Lesson: Standing firm in God’s truth is vital for the restoration and preservation of a nation.
45) Vashti – (Esther 1) Queen of Persia who refused King Xerxes’ command to appear and was deposed.
Key Lesson: Standing for dignity and honor, even at personal cost, honors God.
46) Esther (Hadassah) – (Esther 2) Jewish queen of Persia who saved her people from genocide.
Key Lesson: God places us in positions of influence for such a time as this, to act according to His will.
47) Job’s Wife – (Job 2:9) Unnamed woman who urged Job to “curse God and die.”
Key Lesson: Faith in God is essential, even in the midst of deep suffering.
48) The Shunammite Woman – (2 Kings 4) Provided hospitality to Elisha and received a miraculous son; later had him raised from the dead.
Key Lesson: Hospitality and faithfulness to God’s servants often bring unexpected blessings.
49) Jeremiah’s Mother – (Jeremiah 15:10) Mentioned indirectly in the prophet’s laments.
Key Lesson: Sometimes God’s calling requires sacrifice, but His presence sustains us.
50) Gomer – (Hosea 1:3) Wife of Hosea the prophet; symbol of Israel’s unfaithfulness.
Key Lesson: God’s love is relentless, even when we stray, and He calls us back to Himself.
Read also the FREE Topical Bible Study Plans or Women of the Bible series.
Next is the list of important women in the Bible in the New Testament.
List of women in the New Testament
Here is the list of women in the New Testament in chronological order, and find out what their stories teach us.
1) Elizabeth – (Luke 1:5–80) Wife of Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist; known for her faith and being filled with the Holy Spirit when Mary visited her.
Key Lesson: Elizabeth teaches us the power of trusting God’s promises, even when circumstances seem impossible.
2) Mary (Mother of Christ Jesus) – (Luke 1:26–56; Matthew 1:18–25) A young virgin chosen by God to bear the Messiah, Jesus; honored for her obedience and deep trust in God.
Key Lesson: Mary exemplifies humility and complete surrender to God’s will, even when the path is uncertain and challenging.
3) Anna the Prophetess – (Luke 2:36–38) Elderly widow who worshiped continually in the temple and recognized baby Jesus as the Messiah.
Key Lesson: Anna teaches us the importance of faithfulness and patience in waiting for God’s promises to be fulfilled.
4) Herodias – (Mark 6:17–29) Wife of Herod Antipas; plotted the execution of John the Baptist after he condemned her unlawful marriage.
Key Lesson: Herodias warns us against allowing pride and resentment to control our actions, leading us away from righteousness.
5) Salome (Daughter of Herodias) – (Mark 6:22) Danced before Herod and, at her mother’s prompting, requested John the Baptist’s head.
Key Lesson: Salome teaches us about the consequences of being influenced by others in ways that can lead to destructive choices.
6) Mary Magdalene – (Luke 8:2; John 20:1–18) Delivered from seven demons by Jesus Christ; became a devoted follower and was the first to see the risen Christ.
Key Lesson: Mary Magdalene shows us the transformative power of Christ’s love and grace, offering forgiveness and purpose even in our darkest moments.
7) Joanna – (Luke 8:3; 24:10) Wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward; supported Jesus’ ministry financially and was a witness to the resurrection.
Key Lesson: Joanna exemplifies selfless service and the importance of supporting God’s work through practical means, such as financial resources.
8) Susanna – (Luke 8:3) One of the women who followed and supported Jesus and His disciples.
Key Lesson: Susanna’s life demonstrates the power of quiet faithfulness in supporting God’s mission, even when not in the spotlight.
9) Martha – (Luke 10:38–42; John 11) Sister of Lazarus and Mary; known for her hospitality and faith in Jesus’ resurrection power.
Key Lesson: Martha teaches us about balancing our duties with devotion, ensuring that we don’t lose sight of what truly matters in our relationship with Christ.
10) Mary of Bethany – (Luke 10:39; John 11–12) Sister of Martha and Lazarus; anointed Jesus’ feet with perfume and listened at His feet.
Key Lesson: Mary shows us the importance of sitting at Jesus’ feet, prioritizing relationship with Him over all other distractions.
11) The Woman with the Alabaster Jar – (Luke 7:36–50) Though unnamed in Luke, traditionally linked to Mary of Bethany in John; showed deep love and repentance by anointing Jesus.
Key Lesson: This woman teaches us about the power of extravagant love and repentance, showing that true worship comes from the heart.
12) The Woman with the Issue of Blood – (Luke 8:43–48) Unnamed woman healed by touching Jesus’ cloak after twelve years of bleeding.
Key Lesson: She demonstrates the importance of faith and the belief that Jesus can heal and restore, no matter how long the struggle.
13) The Canaanite (Syrophoenician) Woman – (Matthew 15:21–28) Persistently asked Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter; praised for her great faith.
Key Lesson: This woman teaches us persistence in faith, showing that great faith often involves perseverance and trust in God’s mercy.
14) The Widow of Nain – (Luke 7:11–17) Unnamed woman whose only son was raised from the dead by Jesus.
Key Lesson: Her story highlights that Jesus meets us in our deepest grief, offering resurrection and new life even in the most hopeless situations.
15) Pilate’s Wife – (Matthew 27:19) Sent a message to her husband, urging him not to condemn Jesus, having suffered in a dream because of Him.
Key Lesson: Pilate’s wife reminds us to listen to the warnings God gives us, even when they come in unexpected ways.
16) Mary (Mother of James and Joseph/Joses) – (Mark 15:40, 47) Witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection; often called “the other Mary.”
Key Lesson: She demonstrates faithful presence, showing the importance of standing firm with Christ, even in the face of suffering and loss.
17) Salome (Follower of Jesus) – (Mark 15:40–41) Possibly the mother of James and John; accompanied Jesus and was present at the crucifixion and empty tomb.
Key Lesson: Salome teaches us about sacrificial discipleship, following Jesus even when it’s costly and difficult.
18) Mary (Wife of Clopas) – (John 19:25) One of the women standing at the cross; possibly sister-in-law of Mary the mother of Jesus.
Key Lesson: Mary, wife of Clopas, shows us the importance of standing by Jesus through the hardest trials, offering our support even in times of suffering.
19) Sapphira – (Acts 5:1–11) Wife of Ananias who lied about an offering and died as a result of her deceit.
Key Lesson: Sapphira’s story serves as a caution about the dangers of dishonesty and hypocrisy in our walk with God.
20) Tabitha (Dorcas) – (Acts 9:36–42) A disciple known for her acts of charity and good works; raised from the dead by Peter.
Key Lesson: Tabitha exemplifies the power of good works in serving others and how God can use our lives to impact those around us.
21) Rhoda – (Acts 12:13–15) Servant girl who joyfully recognized Peter at the door after his miraculous escape from prison.
Key Lesson: Rhoda’s story teaches us about the importance of recognizing and celebrating God’s answers to prayer, even in unexpected ways.
22) Lydia – (Acts 16:14–15) A wealthy merchant of purple cloth in Philippi; the first recorded European convert to Christianity and hosted Paul and his companions.
Key Lesson: Lydia shows us the power of open-hearted hospitality and how God can use our resources to further His kingdom.
23) The Slave Girl with a Spirit of Divination – (Acts 16:16–18) Unnamed girl delivered by the apostle Paul from a spirit that enabled fortune-telling.
Key Lesson: Her story teaches us about the freedom and transformation that comes from encountering the power of Jesus.
24) Damaris – (Acts 17:34) A woman in Athens who believed Paul’s message and became a follower of Christ.
Key Lesson: Damaris teaches us about the courage to embrace the gospel, even when it’s unpopular or goes against societal norms.
25) Priscilla (Prisca) – (Acts 18:2–3, 26; Romans 16:3) Wife of Aquila; taught Apollos more accurately about Jesus; a trusted coworker of Paul.
Key Lesson: Priscilla exemplifies the importance of both teaching and learning, showing that both women and men can be key players in the gospel ministry.
26) Phoebe – (Romans 16:1–2) A deacon of the church in Cenchreae; commended in Paul’s letters as a benefactor and bearer of his letter to Rome.
Key Lesson: Phoebe teaches us the value of serving in both practical and spiritual capacities, encouraging us to use our gifts for God’s glory.
27) Tryphena and Tryphosa – (Romans 16:12) Women who worked hard in the Lord; possibly sisters or twins.
Key Lesson: Their story reminds us of the importance of hard work in the Lord and how dedication to His service is honored.
28) Persis – (Romans 16:12) Another woman praised by Paul for her hard work in the Lord.
Key Lesson: Persis teaches us that all acts of service, no matter how small, are valuable and appreciated in God’s kingdom.
29) Julia – (Romans 16:15) Greeted by Paul along with others; likely a Christian woman in the Roman church.
Key Lesson: Julia’s mention highlights the significance of fellowship and mutual support in the body of Christ.
30) Nympha – (Colossians 4:15) Hosted a church in her house; a leader among believers.
Key Lesson: Nympha demonstrates the role of hospitality in building the church and how God can use our homes to further His mission.
31) Apphia – (Philemon 1:2) Likely a prominent Christian woman in the church at Colossae, possibly Philemon’s wife.
Key Lesson: Apphia exemplifies the influence of women in the early church and encourages us to support one another in faith.
32) The Elect Lady – (2 John 1:1) Addressed in John’s letter; a respected Christian woman or possibly a metaphor for a church congregation.
Key Lesson: The Elect Lady calls us to walk in truth and love, guarding both our personal faith and the unity of the church.
I hope this list of women in the Bible and what they did, has been helpful for you. If you are interested in more about women, just click here: Free Printable Bible Study Lessons For Women.
DOWNLOAD here your free printable list of women in the Bible in chronological order.
Take-away list of women in the Bible in chronological order
The list of women in the Bible in chronological order serves as a powerful reminder of God’s promises and His use of His children to fulfill His plan. From the Old Testament through to the New Testament, these women show us that no matter the time period or circumstances, each has a unique role to play in God’s story.
Whether they are standing firm in faith, acting in obedience, or even facing adversity, they are all part of the greater narrative that stretches across the pages of the Bible.
As you reflect on their stories, remember that God’s Word speaks to us through their lives, showing us that, just like these women, we too are part of His incredible, ongoing story in the world today. Keep this list close, and let it serve as a resource to encourage you in your journey of faith, whether you’re reading the Bible on Sunday mornings or diving into a chronological Bible reading plan.
You, too, are His child and made for a purpose. You fit in His plan and will do great things in and for His Kingdom.