Here in this chapter we read of Miriam and Aaron speaking against Moses on account of his Cushite wife. Apparently, Moses' first wife died and he remarried. Only intermarriage with Canaanites was forbidden.
It appears that Miriam was jealous of Moses' wife. Miriam was the leader of the women in Israel, and now, she seems threatened by the wife of Moses. Thus, she influenced Aaron, and both of them murmured against Moses. But Moses, a man of tremendous humility, did nothing to defend himself.
The Lord heard all about it and He called out Moses, Aaron and Miriam to the tent of meeting. There, the Lord vindicated Moses. Moses was different from all other prophets. He speaks to Moses face to face unlike others whom He only communicates through visions and dreams. Miriam and Aaron should have recognized the position and authority of Moses.
As a result, God disciplined Miriam by turning her into a leper. The disease ate her up so much so that she looked like a half decomposed fetus that was still-born. Miriam was singled out because she, apparently, took the lead in speaking against Moses.
Aaron confessed their sin and cried out to Moses to intercede. Moses did so but was told that Miriam must be separated for seven days and be received back again afterwards.
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