### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Dorkás**, represented by `{{G1393}}`, is the interpreted name for a disciple named Tabitha. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is synonymous with a life characterized by charity and service, as the individual it identifies was known to be "full of good works and almsdeeds" [[Acts 9:36]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1393}}` refers to a disciple in Joppa. The account in Acts establishes her reputation immediately, stating that **Dorcas** was a woman "full of good works and almsdeeds which she did" [[Acts 9:36]]. Her impact is made powerfully evident after her death when the Apostle Peter is brought to an upper chamber. There, "all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which **Dorcas** made, while she was with them" [[Acts 9:39]]. Her name is thus directly linked to compassionate action and its effect on the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the character of the woman known as **Dorcas**:
* `{{G18}}` **agathós** (good): This word is used to describe the nature of her works. She was not just busy, but specifically full of **good** works, highlighting the beneficial quality of her actions [[Acts 9:36]].
* `{{G1654}}` **eleēmosýnē** (alms(-deeds)): This term, defined as "compassionateness... beneficence," specifies her form of charity. Her life was marked by giving **almsdeeds**, a tangible expression of care for the poor [[Acts 9:36]].
* `{{G5503}}` **chḗra** (widow): This word identifies the recipients of her ministry. The mourning **widows** provide a living testament to the impact of the garments Dorcas made, underscoring the personal and practical nature of her service [[Acts 9:39]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{G1393}}` carries significant theological weight as a practical example of Christian living.
* **Faith Expressed Through Works:** As a "disciple," Dorcas's identity is immediately tied to her actions. Her life illustrates the principle that believers are "created in Christ Jesus unto good works" [[Ephesians 2:10]], with her charity serving as the evidence of her faith [[Acts 9:36]].
* **Care for the Vulnerable:** Dorcas's ministry to the **widows** [[Acts 9:39]] is a direct embodiment of "pure religion," which involves visiting the fatherless and widows in their affliction [[James 1:27]].
* **A Legacy of Compassion:** The scene of the widows **weeping** `{{G2799}}` and displaying the clothes she made demonstrates that a life of service leaves a powerful and lasting legacy that testifies to one's character long after they are gone [[Acts 9:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1393}}` is not merely a name but the representation of a disciple whose faith was defined by action. **Dorcas** serves as a foundational biblical model of charity, demonstrating how **good** `{{G18}}` **works** `{{G2041}}` and **almsdeeds** `{{G1654}}` are the natural outflow of a life dedicated to God. Her story powerfully illustrates how compassionate service, particularly to the most vulnerable like **widows** `{{G5503}}`, creates a lasting and meaningful testimony.
TRV