Who Was Dorcas in the Bible — In Biblical Context
Dorcas — also called Tabitha — was a believer in Joppa known for her good works and acts of charity, whom Peter raised from the dead.
Dorcas — also called Tabitha — was a believer in Joppa known for her good works and acts of charity, whom Peter raised from the dead.
"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)
The Biblical Context
Dorcas — her Aramaic name; Tabitha is the Greek equivalent, meaning 'gazelle' — was a disciple in the coastal town of Joppa. Luke describes her as a woman 'full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.' She made garments for widows and served the poor. When she fell sick and died, the disciples sent for Peter, who was in nearby Lydda. The widows stood around Dorcas's body, showing Peter the tunics and garments she had made for them. Peter knelt down, prayed, and said, 'Tabitha, arise.' She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. He presented her alive to the saints and widows, and the news spread throughout Joppa, causing many to believe in the Lord. Dorcas is a model of practical faith — her hands were busy with works of love, and her resurrection became a powerful testimony to the living Christ.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Acts 9:36, sits inside Acts 9. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"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."
Supporting Passages
"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."
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