www.bible.com/100/jas.1.27.nasb1995

Pure and undefiled religion. James picks two synonymous adjectives to define the most spotless kind of religious faith—that which is measured by compassionate love (cf. Jn 13:35 ). orphans and widows. Those without parents or husbands were and are an especially needy segment of the church ( see notes on 1Ti 5:3 ; cf. Ex 22:22 ; Dt 14:28 , 29 ; Ps 68:5 ; Jer 7:6 , 7 ; 22:16 ; Ac 6:1–6 ). Since they are usually unable to reciprocate in any way, caring for them clearly demonstrates true, sacrificial, Christian love.