Dorcas, also known by her Aramaic name Tabitha, is a notable figure in the New Testament, recognized for her charitable works and compassionate spirit. Her story is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 9:36-42. Dorcas lived in the coastal city of Joppa and was a disciple known for her good works and acts of charity, particularly in making garments for widows and the needy.

Biblical Account:

The account of Dorcas is brief yet impactful. Acts 9:36-37 introduces her as a disciple who was "full of good works and acts of charity." Tragically, she fell ill and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upper room. The disciples in Joppa, having heard that the Apostle Peter was nearby in Lydda, sent for him urgently.

Upon Peter's arrival, he was taken to the upper room where Dorcas' body lay. The widows stood by, weeping and showing him the garments Dorcas had made while she was with them. Moved by the scene, Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt down, and prayed. Turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and upon seeing Peter, she sat up. Peter then presented her alive to the believers and widows, and this miracle became known throughout Joppa, leading many to believe in the Lord (Acts 9:40-42).

Significance:

Dorcas is celebrated as an exemplar of Christian charity and service. Her life and resurrection underscore the early Christian community's emphasis on caring for the vulnerable and the power of faith in action. Her story highlights the role of women in the early Church, demonstrating that their contributions were vital and valued.

The miracle of her resurrection through Peter's prayer also serves as a testament to the power of God working through the apostles, affirming the message of the Gospel and the reality of the resurrection. Dorcas' restoration to life is a powerful symbol of hope and the transformative power of Christ's love.

Legacy:

Dorcas' legacy endures in the Christian tradition as a model of selfless service and devotion. Many charitable organizations and women's groups within the Church have been named in her honor, reflecting her spirit of generosity and care for those in need. Her story continues to inspire believers to live out their faith through acts of kindness and service to others, embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways.

In summary, Dorcas (Tabitha) is remembered as a beloved disciple whose life and miraculous resurrection exemplify the virtues of charity, faith, and the transformative power of God's love. Her story is a testament to the impact one life can have when dedicated to serving others in the name of Christ.Acts 9:36
Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and giving of alms which she did.
Nave's Topical Index

Some General Matters and Some Biblical Characters. The Bible Book ...
... (27) Sapphira, Acts 5:1. (28) Tabitha, Dorcas, Acts 9:36. (29) Lydia Acts.16:14. ...
(1) The witch of Endor, 1:Sara.28:7. (2) The women of Tekoa.2 Sam.14. ...
/.../chapter viii some general matters.htm

A Seeker for Truth
... Turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise. ... and when she saw Peter, she sat up."
Dorcas had been ... And to men and women has been committed the sacred trust of ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 14 a seeker for.htm

Acts ix. 26, 27
... "Which," it says, "Dorcas made while ... and prayed; and turning him to the body, said,
Tabitha, arise." (v ... but their parents do all: and often have women had their ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxi acts ix 26.htm

Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ...
... it"within a few miles"was Joppa, where the raising of Tabitha, Dorcas, "the gazelle ...
persons (bond or free) up to the age of sixty-five"women being liable ...
/.../sketches of jewish social life/chapter 4 travelling in palestineroads.htm

Acts IX
... if he found any of that way, whether men or women, he might ... 36) "Now, in Joppa, there
was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, is Dorcas. ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts ix.htm

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