dorcas

Dorcas is a feminine given name of Greek origin derived from the Aramaic Tabitha, meaning "gazelle." In the Bible, the name appears as Dorcas in Acts 9:36–42, referring to a disciple in Joppa renowned for charitable acts toward widows. She is described as kindly, and when she fell ill and died, the apostle Peter prayed and she was restored to life, an episode often cited as an example of early Christian charity.

Because of its biblical association, the name Dorcas has been used in Christian communities, sometimes spelled Tabitha, and has given rise to charitable organizations such as Dorcas Societies that focus on helping the poor and clothing recipients, reflecting the deeds attributed to the original Dorcas.

Dorcas also refers to a species: the Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), a small antelope native to North Africa and the Middle East. Dorcas gazelles inhabit arid and semi-arid environments, are medium-sized with pale fawns and dark eye markings, and feed on grasses and browse. They are adapted to desert life and face threats from habitat loss, drought, and hunting; conservation status is commonly listed as vulnerable or at risk in many assessments.

The name remains in use in various cultures and languages, and Tabitha/Dorcas are sometimes used interchangeably in religious contexts. See also Tabitha (name).