Tel Aviv Names Neighborhood after New Testament Figure Tabitha

By Travelujah, Wednesday, February 02, 2011

Tel Aviv Municipality named seven new neighborhoods this week, one of which was after a New Testament figure, Tabitha, well known for her charitable works, and whom Peter raised from the dead. The neighborhood is situated adjacent to the Russian Orthodox church in the southern part of the city, next to Jaffa and very near the Tel Aviv Botanical Garden. The grave of Tabitha is also located in this area of the city.

The importance of Tabitha is mentioned in the New Testament in the story of Peter.

Peter was summoned from Lydda (modern-day Lod) to Jaffa, upon the death of Tabitha, known far and wide for her charitable works: "But Peter ... 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. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa [Jaffa]; and many believed in the Lord." Acts 9: 36-42,(40-42).

For the Christian visitor to Tel Aviv, what is arguably the most significant reference to Jaffa is the Vision of St. Peter (Acts 10: 1-48). Jaffa is an important Christian site that is generally included in Christian pilgrimage itineraries because of its connection to St. Peter.

"And he [Simon Peter] became very hungry and would have eaten; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance.