Holy Bible Online 
Dorcas, also known as Tabitha, was a disciple of Jesus known for her generosity in helping those in need and for being brought back to life by Peter. She lived in the city of Joppa and was a kind, devoted woman who was highly regarded for her good deeds. Dorcas made clothing and gave alms to those in need, especially the poor and widows.
One day, Dorcas became seriously ill and died. The Christians in the city were deeply saddened, as she was dearly loved by all. They sent for Peter, who was in the nearby city of Lydda, asking him to come immediately to Joppa.
When Peter arrived, he found the believers mourning in the house where Dorcas’s body lay. The widows in the community were crying and showing him the beautiful clothes Dorcas had made for them. The apostle Peter asked everyone to leave the room. Then he knelt and prayed. After praying, he said, “Tabitha, get up!”
At that moment, Dorcas opened her eyes and sat up. Peter helped her to her feet and presented her alive to everyone around. News of this miracle spread throughout the city, and many people came to believe in Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Tabitha shows us God’s power and His grace for all.
The story of Dorcas speaks to us about generosity, service, and love for others. In fact, this is what Christ works in the hearts of those who believe in Him. Those who know and love God are sensitive to the needs of others, acting with solidarity and love toward the needy—sacrificing their own resources to help others, just as Dorcas did.
Key Characteristics of Dorcas
- Generous: Dorcas was a kind woman who always cared about helping those in need.
- Hardworking: She made clothing for the poor and widows, which required skill, time, and effort.
- Kind: Dorcas was charitable and devoted to others selflessly, reflecting the love of Christ.
- Believer: She had genuine faith in Jesus.
- Admired: She was respected and admired by the community for her kindness and service.
- Inspiring: Dorcas set an example with her gift of kindness, service, and love. To this day, she continues to inspire Christians around the world to glorify God and bless others.
Explanation of Acts 9:36
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.
- Acts 9:36
This verse summarizes Dorcas’s life. It first situates her geographically, then states her name in both languages, and finally highlights her character and actions.
Each of the 4 parts of the verse explained:
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"In Joppa" – Joppa was a port city on the coast of Israel, now the modern port of Jaffa in Tel Aviv. At that time, it was a small detour from the coastal road. This detail shows that Christianity was already spreading to different regions and reaching disciples (followers of Jesus) from various backgrounds.
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"There was a disciple" – Being called a disciple means Dorcas was a committed follower of Jesus. She didn’t just believe in Him—she lived in a way that reflected her faith and Christ’s teachings.
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"Named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas" – Tabitha is her name in Aramaic, and in Greek, it is Dorcas. Both names mean “gazelle,” an animal associated with grace and beauty. The mention of both names reflects the cultural exchange between Jews and Gentiles in the early Christian church.
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"She was always doing good and helping the poor" – This description of Dorcas shows that her love for God and people was expressed through action. Her life embodied the teachings of Jesus—loving and caring for one’s neighbor with compassion and generosity.
Lessons from the Story of Dorcas
Dorcas is an example of how faith in Christ can transform the lives around us through practical acts of love and generosity. Her story teaches us that Christianity is lived not only through words or beliefs but also through actions of kindness and service. Other key lessons include:
- Faith in action: Dorcas lived in such a way that her deeds spoke louder than her words.
- Generosity: Her life was dedicated to the well-being of others, putting the needs of her neighbors before her own. This reflects the love of God.
- Active disciple: Following Christ also means doing what He did.
- Service: Dorcas used her practical skills, time, and resources to serve others, showing that small acts can have a big impact in God’s kingdom.
- A call to care for those in need: The story of Dorcas is an inspiring reminder that God values both humble gifts and great feats, and that we can serve in practical ways to glorify Him.
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