Santiago 1:26

"Religious" (Gr. threskos, used only here in the New Testament) describes someone who fears or worships God. In particular, it refers to the outward consequences of what one believes (i.e., piety, good works) rather than to what he believes or the fact that he believes deeply. The Jews, who were James’ original readers, typically regarded alms-giving, prayer, fasting, regular attendance at worship services, and the observance of holy days and feasts as signs of true spirituality (cf. Matthew 6:1-18). However, James said a better test of spirituality was God’s control of one’s tongue (cf. James 3:1-12).