Orphan
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Orphan in the Bible?
In biblical literature, the term 'orphan' primarily denotes a child who has lost their father, a status that frequently places them in the same category as widows as the most vulnerable members of society. The Greek word 'orphanos' appears in the New Testament, reflecting the same social reality of paternal loss and the resulting lack of familial protection.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the legal and social vulnerability of orphans in the ancient world illuminates the biblical emphasis on justice and divine protection for the marginalized. This context reveals how religious laws were specifically designed to safeguard those without familial support, highlighting the moral imperative to care for the defenseless.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Orphan in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Orphan clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.