1:27

The form of worship: Or “The religion.” The Greek word (thre·skeiʹa) used here (and in verse 26, where it is rendered “worship”) could refer to a “form of worship” whether true or false. (Ac 26:5; Col 2:18 and study note) This word was often used by writers in ancient times to describe acts of worship. In this verse, James goes on to explain what form of religion is true and acceptable to God.

to look after orphans and widows: James here emphasizes an important feature of true worship, providing a specific example of what it means to be “a doer” of God’s word. (Jas 1:22-25) The Greek word for “look after” can also be rendered “turn one’s attention to” or “visit.” (Lu 1:68; Ac 15:14, 36) It can convey the idea of making regular visits to care for someone’s ongoing needs. (Mt 25:36, 43) In the Septuagint, this verb is often used to show how Jehovah lovingly cares for his servants. (Ru 1:6; Ps 8:4 [8:5, LXX]; Eze 34:11) So Christians were to give continuous support to those among them who were in need, such as “orphans and widows.” Jehovah had long required that his people support such ones as part of true worship.​—Ex 22:22; Ps 68:5; Isa 1:10-17; Jer 7:6; compare 1Ti 5:3 and study note.

orphans: In this context, the Greek word or·pha·nosʹ refers to a child who is without at least one parent, especially the father. Back then, the father was generally the breadwinner and was responsible for the care and instruction of his children. (Eph 6:4) At times, the Greek word was used in an extended sense to refer to people in general who had suffered bereavement.​—Compare study notes on Joh 14:18; 1Th 2:17.

in their tribulation: Because of illness, a shorter lifespan, and other factors, it was common in the first century C.E. for women and children to suffer the loss of the family head. Since the man provided the primary economic support for the family, life could become truly difficult for such a household.​—See study note on 2Co 1:4.

to keep oneself without spot from the world: James here highlights another important part of true worship. He says that Christians are to remain separate from the world, that is, unrighteous human society that is alienated from God. (See Glossary, “World.”) Jesus said that his disciples should be no part of that world. (Joh 15:19 and study note) He set the example by refusing to get involved with the world’s political and social affairs or to adopt its godless conduct and attitudes. (Mt 4:8-10; Joh 6:15; 16:33 and study note) James reminds his readers that even though they lived in the world, they were to be like Jesus​—no part of it. They must not allow the world’s ways to rub off on them, thereby spotting or staining them with its godless thinking and behavior.​—Jas 4:4 and study note; 1Pe 4:3, 4; 1Jo 2:15.