Originally posted on 8/5/25
Dorcas is the first Greek woman mentioned in the Old Testament. We read about her in Acts 9:36-42, “Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner. “
She lived in Joppa and was referred to as a “disciple’. Her name meant the female of a roebuck, a gazelle which was an emblem of beauty. Her name is also translated “Tabitha” in Hebrew.
Tabitha was known for her acts of charity. She was a woman of means and she used those means to serve the Lord. She was a talented seamstress who made garments for widows and the needy.
In the book, All the Women of the Bible, Herbert Lockyer states, “They knew that he had exercised super-natural power, and doubtless entertained the hope that their greatly[loved benefactress might live again. Like the faithful minister that he was, Peter did not delay in accompanying the two men to the death chamber at Joppa where the weeping widows were assembled. The apostle must have been moved as they reverently exhibited the coats and garments Dorcas had made for them. Then after Christ’s example at the raising of Jairus’ daughter, “Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down and prayer” (see John 11:41,42). When he felt his request had been received, Peter spake the word of power and authority, “Tabitha, arise,” and life returned. Dorcca sat up, and Peter presented her alive to the saints and widows.” p. 48
Peter was one of a few who were in the room when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. There is no doubt that this greatly impacted his faith. He asks people to leave the room as well. Peter speaks to her dead body and she is revived. Peter takes her out so others can see that she is alive.
What can we learn from Tabitha? She served God with what she had–a needle and some money. She saw a need in her community and she filled it. Her life as well as her death was all part of God’s plan. This event brought many to Christ. Peter stayed to welcome more converts.
Even when our lives seems mundane or very ordinary, God is able to use every part of our lives for his purposes. Don’t be afraid to step out and answer those promptings from the Holy Spirit. Use what you have to serve our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
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