Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, orphans are often mentioned alongside widows and the poor as vulnerable members of society who require special care and protection. The term "orphan" typically refers to a child who has lost one or both parents. The Bible emphasizes God's compassion and justice for orphans, urging His people to reflect these attributes in their treatment of them.Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently addresses the plight of orphans, underscoring God's concern for their welfare. In the Law, God commands His people to protect and provide for orphans. Deuteronomy 10:18 states, "He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing." This verse highlights God's active role in ensuring justice and provision for orphans. The Mosaic Law includes specific instructions to safeguard the rights of orphans. For example, Deuteronomy 24:17-21 instructs the Israelites not to pervert justice due to the foreigner or the fatherless and to leave behind gleanings in the field for them. This provision ensured that orphans had access to food and resources, reflecting God's care for their needs. The Psalms and the Prophets also echo this theme. Psalm 68:5 describes God as "a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows," emphasizing His protective nature. Similarly, Isaiah 1:17 calls the people to "learn to do right; seek justice, correct the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow." These passages illustrate the expectation that God's people will act as His agents in caring for orphans. New Testament References The New Testament continues the theme of caring for orphans, though the term itself is less frequently used. James 1:27 provides a clear directive: "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." This verse underscores the importance of practical acts of compassion as a demonstration of genuine faith. Jesus' teachings and actions also reflect a concern for the vulnerable, including orphans. While He does not specifically mention orphans in the Gospels, His emphasis on loving one's neighbor and caring for "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40) aligns with the biblical mandate to support those in need, including orphans. Theological Significance The biblical emphasis on caring for orphans is rooted in the character of God, who is depicted as a loving and just Father. This concern is not merely a social obligation but a reflection of divine love and justice. Believers are called to emulate God's compassion by actively engaging in the care and support of orphans. Throughout Scripture, the treatment of orphans serves as a measure of societal righteousness and faithfulness to God's commands. The consistent biblical call to defend and provide for orphans challenges believers to prioritize the needs of the vulnerable and to embody the love and justice of God in their communities. Library The Orphan's Hymn. The Orphan's Prayer. The Believer not an Orphan. "I Will not Leave You Comfortless: I ... Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs. Eleventh Day. Sympathy. Psalm 10 Psalm 146 For a Juvenile Missionary Meeting. PM Anonymous. Heaven on Earth. Anniversary of an Orphan Asylum. Thesaurus Orphan's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Orphan's (1 Occurrence). Job 24:3 They drive away the donkey of the fatherless, and they take the widow's ox for a pledge. (See NIV). ... /o/orphan's.htm - 6k Orphans (12 Occurrences) Orthosia Resources What does the Bible say about orphans and widows? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Orphan's (1 Occurrence)Job 24:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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