Dorcas
“Gazelle”
Summary
A charitable Christian woman of Joppa whom Peter raised from the dead, remembered for her abundant good works and garments made for the poor.
☩Her Life and Character
Dorcas, the Greek equivalent of Aramaic Tabitha meaning 'gazelle,' was a disciple in Joppa. She is called mathetria—the only time the feminine form of 'disciple' appears in the New Testament. Dorcas was 'full of good works and almsdeeds,' particularly the making of garments for the poor. She seems to have had some means and was a leader in the Christian community, beloved for how she used her position to serve others.
☩Death and Restoration
When Dorcas fell ill and died, the believers washed her body and placed it in an upper room, then sent urgently for Peter in nearby Lydda. The mourning widows showed Peter the garments Dorcas had made, demonstrating the depth of their loss. Peter put them out, knelt in prayer, and commanded 'Tabitha, arise!' She opened her eyes, sat up, and was presented alive to the saints and widows.
☩Legacy
The miracle became widely known in Joppa and 'many believed on the Lord.' Dorcas's example has inspired countless 'Dorcas societies' in Christian churches, devoted to clothing the poor. Her simple, practical service demonstrates that extraordinary miracles may accompany ordinary faithfulness. A 'Tabitha School' in modern Jaffa commemorates her care for the needy.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Dorcas," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Dorcas," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).