Is it a condition for sponsoring an orphan that it covers everything, or is it permissible for it to be in a specific aspect of basic life, taking into consideration the situation of the orphan's father?

Sponsoring an orphan means that the sponsor takes the place of the father in caring for, raising, and providing for the orphan. This includes providing food, drink, shelter, clothing, and medical care, as well as educating and nurturing them, whether the orphan is under the custody of their sponsor, mother, or a charitable institution.

Sponsorship is not limited to financial provision only; it also includes custody and upbringing. An orphan might be wealthy but still in need of someone to care for them. Anyone who fulfills any aspect of these responsibilities has sponsored an orphan.

As for the treatment of an orphan, it is most complete for the sponsor to treat them exactly like their own children: taking them into their home, providing for them, educating them, and raising them. The sponsorship must continue until the orphan becomes self-sufficient, even if they reach the age of accountability (تكليف) if they still need to complete their education or qualification.

The more generously the sponsor provides for the orphan, without extravagance or waste, the better. It is commendable to honor the orphan, bring joy to their heart, and mend their spirits, as there is immense reward and great recompense in doing so.