Richness in Scripture
As we move forward in our series of obscure (but great) women in the Bible, we will look at different biblical translations for depth and richness. Today, we will dive into the story of Tabitha, a righteous woman who helped the less fortunate.
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.”
Acts 9:36 NIV
Now in Yafo there was a talmidah named Tavita 36 (which means “gazelle”); she was always doing tzedakah and other good deeds.
Acts 9:36 The Complete Jewish Bible
The Tale of Tabitha
The story begins in The Book of Acts, written by the Gospel writer, Luke, in 50-80 AD. Jesus’ disciples now find themselves in foreign lands. Places like Antioch, Caesarea, Cyprus, Galatia, Macedonia, and Tyre to name a few. And the gospel of Jesus Christ is spreading like wildfire.
Peter finds himself in Lydda, where he heals Aeneas, a man who has been paralyzed for eight years. News of this miracle spreads quickly.
So, we can imagine the awe and wonder felt by the townspeople.
Meanwhile, in the neighboring city of Joppa, a woman named Tabitha falls gravely ill. Her friends send for Peter. En route, Tabitha dies, and family and friends start the grieving process. As mourners gather at her home, Peter arrives. At once, he ushers the people out of the room. Alone, Peter kneels beside the lifeless body and says a simple prayer,
“Tabitha, arise.”
She does.
Tabitha opens her eyes and sits up. She takes Peter’s hand as he helps her stand. Imagine the stunned silence when Peter opens the door. In the doorway, Tabitha walks out to greet those who came to mourn.
Let’s take a moment to picture the joy and amazement of Tabitha’s friends.
A witness to a miracle.
How often do we witness a miracle and not know it? Can you think of a time?
Next time, we will talk about Tabitha’s legacy.
See you then.
#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy
I and Thou Reflections 