Bible Verses About Orphans

"A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation."

"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction."

"Thou art the helper of the fatherless."

"He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow."

"When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up."

"The Lord preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow."

"Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee."

"In thee the fatherless findeth mercy."

"For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father."

"Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will."

What does the Bible say about orphans?

God's heart beats for the fatherless. Throughout Scripture, He commands His people to defend, provide for, and care for orphans—making it not a suggestion but a sacred obligation. Key King James Version passages include Psalm 68:5, James 1:27, Psalm 10:14. This page collects 10 KJV verses about orphans, each quoted in full.

What does the Bible say about adoption?

The Bible uses adoption as a central metaphor for salvation—God adopts believers as His children (Romans 8:15, Ephesians 1:5, Galatians 4:5). This spiritual reality also motivates physical adoption and foster care. James 1:27 defines pure religion as caring for orphans, and Psalm 68:5 calls God 'a father of the fatherless.'

Why does God care so much about orphans?

God cares for orphans because they represent the most vulnerable members of society. His character is revealed in defending those who cannot defend themselves (Psalm 10:14). His justice demands protection for the powerless (Deuteronomy 10:18). And His love model—adopting us when we were spiritual orphans—compels us to do the same for others.

What is the Christian's responsibility toward orphans?

James 1:27 says pure religion includes visiting 'the fatherless.' This can mean adoption, foster care, financial support, mentoring, or volunteering with child welfare organizations. God Himself is 'a father of the fatherless' (Psalm 68:5) and calls His people to reflect His heart for vulnerable children.

How should the church care for orphans today?

James 1:27 places orphan care at the center of 'pure and undefiled religion.' Practically, this includes adoption, foster care, mentoring fatherless children, and advocacy. The gospel itself is an adoption story (Ephesians 1:5).