Dorcas (also called Tabitha) was a disciple in Joppa full of good works and almsdeeds — she sewed coats and garments for the widows of her town. When she died, the grieving widows showed Peter the clothes she had made, and Peter, kneeling in prayer, said, Tabitha, arise — and she opened her eyes.
Her raising brought many to faith. Her name means gazelle, and she is forever remembered as a picture of practical, generous love in action. Sewing circles and charities have borne her name for centuries.
Dorcas is a vintage, tender name — carried by one of Scripture's kindest women.
Variants & nicknames
Tabitha, Dorkas
Dorcas in the Bible
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.