Acts 9:36
What does Acts 9:36 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 9:36 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 9:36 means
The narrative now shifts to Joppa, introducing a devout female disciple named Tabitha, also known by her Greek name, Dorcas, meaning "gazelle." She was renowned for her abundant good works and acts of charity, particularly her almsdeeds, which likely included making garments for the poor. Her life exemplified practical Christian love and compassion, demonstrating a tangible faith through service to others, making her a beloved and respected member of her community.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Now 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.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Now 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.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Now 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.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, that is, Dorcas: this woman was given to good works and acts of mercy at all times.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And in Joppa there was a certain female disciple, by name Tabitha, (which interpreted, is called Dorcas,) this woman was full of good works and kind acts that she was doing;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And in Joppe there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And in Joppa there was a certain female disciple, by name Tabitha, which being interpreted means Dorcas. She was full of good works and alms-deeds which she did.
Context
Following the successful ministry in Lydda (verse 35), the narrative now moves to Joppa, introducing Tabitha (Dorcas). This description of her character and charitable works is crucial for understanding the community's grief at her death and the significance of her subsequent restoration. Her exemplary life sets the stage for Peter's next miracle, highlighting God's compassion for His devoted servants and His people.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Timothy 5:10
well reported of for good works; if she hath brought up children, if she hath used hospitality to strangers, if she hath washed the saints’ feet, if she hath relieved the afflicted, if she hath diligently followed every good work.
- James 1:27
Pure religion and undefiled before our God and Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
- Hebrews 13:21
make you perfect in every good thing to do his will, working in us that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.
- Proverbs 5:19
Asa loving hind and a pleasant doe, Let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; And be thou ravished always with her love.
- Acts 10:4
And he, fastening his eyes upon him, and being affrighted, said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are gone up for a memorial before God.
- Ephesians 2:10
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that we should walk in them.
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