Girl New Testament Rare
Tabitha
clear-sighted; a roe-deer
Ταβιθά Tabitha
Tabitha (Greek: Ταβιθά, Tabitha) means “clear-sighted; a roe-deer”, by traditional interpretation. It appears in 3 verses across 1 book of the Bible. In 2025 it was given to 171 children in the United States. Use is falling away. Around 59,346 Americans have been given it since 1880. Appears in the same passages as Aeneas.
The bearer in scripture
One person in scripture bears this name.
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Tabitha
Scripture against society
The two measures, side by side
At a glance
- Verses
- 3 across 1 book
- Bearers
- 1 one person only
- Testament
- New
- Era
- Apostolic
Using it today
Based on 2025 births across the United States.
| Measure | Value | Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Given in 2025 | 171 | Falling |
| All-time total | 59,346 | Since records begin in 1880 |
| Peak | 2,324 in 1978 | Its highest year on record |
| Strongest state | TX | Highest share relative to births |
In scripture
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| First appears | Acts 9:36 |
| Last appears | Acts 9:40 |
| Cross-references | 144 linked passages |
Names connected to this one
- Judas co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Judas.
- Aeneas co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Aeneas.
- Simon co-occurrence Appears with Simon in Acts 9.
- Peter co-occurrence Appears with Peter in Acts 9.
- Ananias co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Ananias.
- Joseph co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Joseph.
- Barnabas co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Barnabas.
Origin & meaning
Ταβειθά (Rec. Ταβιθά), ἡ (Aram. טַבְיְתָא or טְבִיתָא),
Tabitha: Act.9:36, 40 (cf. Δορκάς).†
(AS)
Tabitha, also called Dorcas, was a beloved disciple in Joppa known for her charitable works, whom Peter raised from the dead.
The biblical story
Tabitha, also known by her Greek name Dorcas, was a disciple who lived in Joppa. Act.9.36 describes her as a woman full of good works and acts of charity. When she became ill and died, the disciples in Joppa sent for Peter, who was in nearby Lydda. They showed him the tunics and garments Dorcas had made for the widows while she was with them, attesting to her life of service. Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt down, and prayed. Then he told Tabitha to arise, and she opened her eyes and sat up. Peter presented her alive to the saints and widows, and this miracle became known throughout Joppa, causing many to believe in the Lord. The name Tabitha in Aramaic and Dorcas in Greek both mean "gazelle." Tabitha is an example of a faithful disciple who was beloved for her practical service and generosity to those in need.
Key verses
Tabitha appears in 3 verses. Here are some of the most notable:
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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.
Acts 9:36 -
Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.
Acts 9:39 -
But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
Acts 9:40
Show all 3 references
Acts (3)
- Acts 9:36
- Acts 9:39
- Acts 9:40
Name variants & nicknames
- Dorcas — Greek name, also called Dorcas (Acts 9:36)
- Tabby — nickname