Tabitha
“GazelleGazelle”
Summary
Tabitha, also called Dorcas, was a charitable Christian woman of Joppa whom Peter raised from the dead.
☩Her Life and Character
Tabitha was a female disciple living in Joppa, described as 'full of good works and almsdeeds.' Her charitable ministry particularly focused on making coats and garments for the poor widows of her community. The name Tabitha is the Aramaic form meaning 'gazelle,' which Luke translates into Greek as Dorcas, the gazelle being regarded in the East as a standard of beauty. Whether she actually bore both names or Luke simply provided the Greek equivalent for his Gentile readers is uncertain.
☩Her Death and Resurrection
When Tabitha became ill and died, her body was washed and laid in an upper chamber according to Jewish custom. The disciples at Joppa, knowing that Peter was nearby in Lydda, sent two men urgently requesting him to come without delay. Upon arrival, Peter found the widows weeping and showing him the garments Tabitha had made for them. Following the example of Christ at Jairus's house, Peter put everyone out of the room, knelt in prayer, and then commanded, 'Tabitha, arise.' She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up; he gave her his hand and presented her alive to the saints and widows.
☩Impact of the Miracle
The miracle of Tabitha's resurrection 'was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.' This was one of the notable miracles performed through Peter during the early apostolic period, demonstrating that the same power that had raised the dead through Jesus continued to operate through His apostles. Peter remained in Joppa many days afterward with Simon the tanner, where he would later receive the vision that opened the gospel to the Gentiles.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Tabitha," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.George Morrish, "Tabitha," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 3.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Tabitha," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).