Let us congratulate the Security forces for defeating the LTTE, which many of us thought was invincible. Whilst rejoicing over the victory, though Pyrrhic but commendable, we should now think of, inter alia, helping the orphans, who have become so, because of the war.

Let me present what the Quran says regarding the orphans, which I think will be an eye-opener for all of us.

Those who care for the orphans will obtain the highest rank of paradise along with Prophets and Messengers, as Allah says, "Whosoever obeyeth Allah and the messenger, they are with those unto whom Allah hath shown favour, of the Prophets and the saints and the martyrs and the righteous. The best of company are they"

"Therefore, treat not the orphan with oppression. And repulse not the beggar.’’

"Sees thou one who denies the Judgment (to come)? Then such is the (man) who repulses the orphan (with harshness), and encourages not the feeding of the indigent."

"And serve Allah. Ascribe nothing as partner unto Him. (Show) kindness unto parents, and unto near kindred, and orphans, and the needy…"

"Those who unjustly consume the property of orphans consume a fire, putting it into their own bodies; they will soon be enduring a blazing fire!"

"And come not nigh to the orphan’s property, except to improve it, until he attain the age of full strength."

I also would like to present what the Prophet (Sal) said regarding the caring of orphans, for us to ponder on and act upon.

Prophet (Sal) said, "I will be like this in Paradise with the person who takes care of an orphan". He raised his forefinger and middle finger by way of illustration.

He also said, "If someone strokes the head of an orphan for the sake of Allah, they will receive blessings for every hair that they touch."

It is reported that Prophet (Sal) has said "The most blessed home is the one in which an orphan is cared for. The worst home is that in which an orphan is treated badly"

Prophet (Sal) desired that great care be given to protecting the property of an orphan. "O Lord! I am wary of those who abuse the rights of two weak types of people, the orphan and women.

Once, a man came to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) complaining about his harsh heart. The Prophet addressed the man saying, "Do you want something that makes your heart lenient and your needs fulfilled? Be merciful to the orphans, touch their hair gently, and feed them from your own food. If you do these things, I guarantee that your heart will become soft, and your needs will be fulfilled."

So, let us strive in whatever way we can to help the orphans.