ACTS 9:36–43
TABITHA (DORCAS) RAISED TO LIFE AND THE GROWTH OF FAITH IN JOPPA
Text – Acts 9:36–43
36 Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated means Dorcas). She was completely occupied with good works and almsgiving.
37 During those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room.
38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, “Please come to us without delay.”
39 So Peter got up and went with them. When he arrived, they led him to the upper room, where all the widows came forward, weeping and showing him the tunics and cloaks that Dorcas had made while she was with them.
40 Peter put them all outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. Then he turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, rise up.” She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up.
41 He gave her his hand and raised her up. Then he called the holy ones and the widows and presented her alive.
42 This became known all over Joppa, and many came to believe in the Lord.
43 And he stayed a long time in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.
Historical and Jewish Context
Joppa was an important port city, historically associated with openness to the nations. Tabitha’s life of charity reflects Jewish piety, where almsgiving was considered a central expression of righteousness. The presence of widows highlights a vulnerable group within both Jewish and early Christian communities. Washing the body and laying it in an upper room follow Jewish burial customs. Peter’s actions mirror prophetic traditions, recalling Elijah and Elisha raising the dead through prayer and divine intervention.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This miracle reveals the Church’s deep concern for works of charity and the dignity of service. Tabitha is called a “disciple,” showing that holiness is not limited to public preaching but is lived through love and good works. Peter’s prayer emphasizes that the power to restore life belongs to God alone. The raising of Tabitha anticipates the Resurrection and confirms that faith, charity, and prayer are inseparable in Christian life. The miracle leads to the growth of faith in the wider community.
Parallels in Scripture
1 Kings 17:17–24 – Elijah raises the widow’s son
2 Kings 4:32–37 – Elisha raises the Shunammite’s son
Mark 5:35–43 – Jesus raises Jairus’ daughter
James 2:17 – Faith alive through works
Matthew 25:35–40 – Service to the least as service to Christ
Key Terms
Tabitha (Dorcas) – A disciple known for charity and compassion
Good works and almsgiving – Concrete expressions of faith
Widows – Recipients and witnesses of Christian charity
Upper room – Place of prayer and divine action
Rise up – Command of restoration and new life
Many believed – Faith awakened through God’s power
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 9:36–43 is proclaimed during the Easter Season, highlighting the Church’s mission of charity and the Resurrection power of Christ at work through prayer.
Conclusion
Acts 9:36–43 shows that a life devoted to charity bears lasting fruit. Through prayer and faith, God restores life, strengthens the Church, and leads many to belief in the Lord.
Reflection
Do my good works flow from faith and love of Christ?
How do I respond to the needs of the vulnerable in my community?
Do I trust in God’s power to bring life even from situations of loss?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Resurrection and the Life. Inspire me by the example of Tabitha to serve generously and love faithfully. Strengthen my faith in Your power over death, and use my life to bring hope and belief to others. Amen.