Tabitha Ταβιθά
Charitable woman in Joppa whom Peter raised from the dead
Who is Tabitha in the Bible?
Tabitha, also known by her Greek name Dorcas, was a devoted disciple living in Joppa who became famous for her charitable works and acts of kindness toward widows (Acts 9:36). When she fell ill and died, Peter was summoned from nearby Lydda, and he miraculously raised her from the dead through prayer (Acts 9:40). The widows in her community testified to her generosity by showing Peter the tunics and garments she had made for them during her lifetime. Her resurrection became widely known throughout Joppa and led many people to believe in the Lord, making Tabitha a powerful example of how faithful discipleship expressed through practical service can impact an entire community.
Biography
Tabitha, also known by her Greek name Dorcas, was a disciple who lived in Joppa. Act.9.36 describes her as a woman full of good works and acts of charity. When she became ill and died, the disciples in Joppa sent for Peter, who was in nearby Lydda. They showed him the tunics and garments Dorcas had made for the widows while she was with them, attesting to her life of service. Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt down, and prayed. Then he told Tabitha to arise, and she opened her eyes and sat up. Peter presented her alive to the saints and widows, and this miracle became known throughout Joppa, causing many to believe in the Lord. The name Tabitha in Aramaic and Dorcas in Greek both mean "gazelle." Tabitha is an example of a faithful disciple who was beloved for her practical service and generosity to those in need.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentActs 3 verses
- Acts 9:36
"In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated as Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity."
Study Acts → - Acts 9:40
"Then Peter sent them all out of the room. He knelt down and prayed, and turning toward her body, he said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up."
Study Acts → - Acts 9:39
"So Peter got up and went with them. On his arrival, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood around him, weeping and showing him the tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them."
Study Acts →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Ταβιθά |
| Named | Greek | Δορκάς |
Tabitha
gnificances, of which "writing-tablet" is the most important for the Biblical use of "table." So in English "tab