Tabitha is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is deeply rooted in the biblical story of Dorcas or Tabitha, who was raised from the dead by the Apostle Peter. The name means "Gazelle" in Hebrew, symbolizing grace, speed, and beauty.
The name Tabitha first appeared in the New Testament of the Bible, where it was used to refer to a woman known for her good deeds and charity. After she died, Peter raised her from the dead, demonstrating the power of faith and the importance of kindness and compassion towards others.
Throughout history, the name Tabitha has been used by various notable figures. In the 17th century, it was given to a daughter of John Pym, an influential English parliamentarian during the period leading up to the English Civil War. More recently, the name gained popularity through its use in popular culture, such as in the television series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," where it was used for one of the main characters.
Despite its biblical origins and historical usage, Tabitha remains a rare and distinctive name, often associated with uniqueness and individuality. Its meaning continues to resonate with those who appreciate grace, beauty, and kindness, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a meaningful and memorable name for their child.
The name Tabithia experienced a notable peak in popularity during the late 1970s to early 1980s, with 12 or more births recorded each year from 1974 to 1984. The name's highest point was reached in 1984 and 1989, with 13 births each year. After the mid-1980s, its popularity began to decline, dropping below 10 births per year after 1986. By the early 1990s, the name had fallen out of favor, with fewer than 10 births recorded in both 1993 and 1995. Overall, there were a total of 165 Tabithia births over the specified period from 1969 to 1995.