Throughout the Old Testament, orphans and widows were recognized as the most vulnerable groups exposed to destitution and oppression. Their loss of a father or husband as protector and breadwinner left them exposed to the cruelty of exploiters. Although this practice was forbidden (see Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 24:17; Deuteronomy 27:19), it is evident from the mouths of the prophets that it did indeed occur (see Isaiah 1:17,Isaiah 1:23; Jeremiah 7:6; Jeremiah 22:3; Ezekiel 22:7). With this in mind, the text indirectly raises an anticipated question: will God remain as the caring Father of the fatherless and protector of widows (see Psalm 68:5; Psalm 146:9)?1 With the progression of the chapter, this anticipation of pleading for God’s help is later fulfilled in Judah’s explicit pleas (seeLamentations 5:19–22). It is only God who can give them their inheritance back and protect them as their Father again.2 The people see themselves as deserted and defenceless as orphans and widows. Therefore this expression anticipates an appeal to God to act on their behalf on the basis of his concern for widows and orphans (see Exodus 22:22; Deuteronomy 10:18; Deuteronomy 14:29; Psalm 68:5; Psalm 146:9; Isaiah 1:17; Jeremiah 7:5–7; Jeremiah 49:11). They have become what was warned against in the law (see Deuteronomy 10:12–11:32) and prophesied by the prophets.3
3 We have become orphans, fatherless; our mothers are like widows.