Learn more about Dorcas

Introduction to Dorcas

Dorcas is a notable female disciple mentioned in the New Testament, known for her acts of charity and kindness. Her name in Greek is “Dorcas” (Δορκάς), which translates to “gazelle,” a symbol of grace and beauty. She is also known by her Aramaic name “Tabitha,” which carries the same meaning. Dorcas is one of the few women in the Bible explicitly referred to as a “disciple,” and her story, found in the Book of Acts, highlights her service to the early Christian community and the miracle of her resurrection performed by the Apostle Peter.

Dorcas Pronunciation

“Dorcas” is pronounced as DOOR-kus, with the emphasis on the first syllable. Her Aramaic name “Tabitha” is pronounced TAH-bih-thah.

Dorcas in the New Testament

Dorcas appears in a significant narrative in Acts 9:36–43. Her story provides insight into the nature of Christian charity and the power of God working through the apostles.

• Acts 9:36–43: Dorcas lived in Joppa and was known for her generosity, especially in making garments for widows and the needy. When she became ill and died, the Christian community was devastated. They sent for Peter, who came from nearby Lydda. Upon arriving, Peter found the widows mourning and showing him the clothing Dorcas had made. Peter prayed and said, “Tabitha, arise,” and she was miraculously brought back to life. This event caused many in Joppa to believe in the Lord.

Key Themes and Meanings Related to Dorcas

The story of Dorcas conveys several significant biblical themes:

• Charitable Service: Dorcas exemplifies Christian compassion. Her life demonstrates the power of good works done in service to others, especially the marginalized, such as widows.
• Christian Discipleship: Dorcas is uniquely described as a disciple (Greek: mathētria), the feminine form of disciple, underscoring her recognized role within the early Church.
• Resurrection Power: Her raising from the dead prefigures the resurrection hope central to Christian belief and displays the power of God working through the apostles.
• Faith Community: The mourning and advocacy of the believers in Joppa show the early Christian emphasis on community interdependence and caring for one another.

Related Terms and Connections

• Peter: The apostle who raised Dorcas from the dead. This miracle emphasized Peter's apostolic authority and the spreading influence of the gospel.
• Joppa: A coastal city where Dorcas lived and was raised. It later became significant in Peter’s vision about clean and unclean animals (Acts 10), marking a turning point in the mission to the Gentiles.
• Widows: A group particularly mentioned in connection to Dorcas. Caring for widows was an important act of piety and social justice in both Jewish and Christian contexts.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Dorcas

• The name Dorcas has been popular in Christian charitable circles; many churches, women’s ministries, and charity groups are named the “Dorcas Society” in honor of her compassionate legacy.
• Her resurrection is the only account in the Bible of a woman being raised from the dead by an apostle.
• Her dual names—Tabitha (Aramaic) and Dorcas (Greek)—suggest she lived in a multicultural environment and her story appealed to both Jewish and Greek-speaking Christians.
• Dorcas is commemorated in the liturgical calendars of several Christian traditions, including the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Roman Catholic Church, and various Protestant denominations.

Dorcas's Legacy in Christian Tradition

Dorcas has been remembered through centuries as a model of godly femininity, service, and generosity. Her example challenges modern readers to live out their faith in tangible acts of mercy. In a time when women’s roles were often restricted, her prominence and the divine attention given to her life and death are notable. She remains a cherished figure in Christian history and continues to inspire charitable action in her name.