μαθήτρια (mathētria)
mathētria
disciple
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun mathētria refers specifically to a female disciple or follower of Jesus. It is the feminine form of the more common word for a male disciple, sharing the same root idea of a learner or student who adheres to a teacher’s instruction.
This term appears only once in the New Testament, in Acts 9:36, where it identifies Tabitha (also called Dorcas) as a devoted follower in Joppa. The use of this specific feminine title highlights that the early Christian community included women who were recognized for their active commitment and learning, not just passive association.
While the masculine form is widespread throughout the Gospels and Acts, the rarity of mathētria underscores its descriptive precision. It marks a woman’s identity within the movement as one who actively learned from and followed the teachings of Christ, distinguishing her role through the same lens of discipleship applied to men.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mathētria appears just once in the New Testament, identifying Tabitha as a female disciple in Joppa. This rare term shows that early Christian communities recognized women as active learners and followers of Jesus, not merely supporters. It reminds us that discipleship is defined by commitment to Christ’s teachings, regardless of gender.
Tabitha’s life exemplifies this role through her good works and acts of mercy. Her story encourages all believers to see faith as an active journey of learning and serving. Whether you are a man or woman, the call to follow Jesus involves both hearing His word and living it out in practical love.
This single occurrence highlights the inclusive nature of the early church. It invites us to consider how we too can be devoted disciples, growing in knowledge and extending kindness to those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a disciple1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μαθήτρια1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 9:36
Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated means Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.
This verse uniquely applies the feminine noun mathētria to Tabitha, confirming her active status as a learner and follower of Jesus in the early church.