DEFINITION OF ORPHANS
Orphan is defined as a child whose parents have died. In Islam, the orphan is a child whose father died before reaching puberty. In Malay, orphan known as "Yatim" which comes from the Arabic word, which is "Yatama, Yaitamu"
and "Yatmu" which means sad or alone.
Adults who lose their parents are not called as orphans because they can take care of themselves. The word is only suitable for children that parents have died because they were not able to take care of themselves and still need help from others. In Malaysia, there are another term which is "Yatim Piatu" that means children who have lost both of their parents.
In Islam, we are asked to keep a good relationship with the orphans, help them and protect their rights because take care and maintaining relationship with orphans is a duty for every Muslim. Let's give them the best possible start. A little donation can make a huge difference.
Sahl ibn Sa'd reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "The one who cares for an orphan and myself will be together in Paradise like this," and he held his two fingers together to illustrate.
Source: Sahih Bukhari 5659
Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "The best house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are well treated. The worst house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are ill treated. I and the guardian of the orphan will be in the Garden like that," indicating his two fingers.
Source: Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 137