ORPHAN

God has a special concern for orphans (Deut 10:18; Ps 68:5), and he wants his people to have similar concern (Deut 26:12; James 1:27). In circumstances where orphans are left poor or defenceless, people who are cruel or greedy can easily take unfair advantage of them (Exod 22:22; Job 24:3,9; Isa 10:2; Jer 5:28). Although God will punish the oppressors (Deut 27:19; Ps 10:12-15; Mal 3:5), he expects his people to defend the oppressed against injustice (Deut 24:17; Job 29:12). He also expects them to help provide the needy with the necessities for everyday living (Deut 16:14; Job 31:16-17).