Dorcas
Israelite / Jew Jewish disciple at Joppa · Early Church · New Testament
- Also called
- Tabitha
- Name means
- 'gazelle' (Tabitha in Aramaic, Dorcas in Greek, Acts 9:36)
- Role
- Disciple full of good works, raised from the dead through Peter
- When
- c. AD 35-40
What they did
Known for her good works and almsdeeds, she made coats and garments for the widows; when she died, Peter prayed and she was raised to life.
Why it matters: the purpose of their role
Her loving service is a model for the church, and her raising led many in Joppa to believe in the Lord.
Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. Acts 9:36 (KJV)
Bible references
Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. Acts 9:36 (KJV)
Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. Acts 9:39 (KJV)
But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. Acts 9:40-42 (KJV)
Family
Scripture records little about this person's family.