Fasting during the six days of Shawwal, after the completion of Ramadan, is an incredible opportunity to extend the rewards of Ramadan and gain immense spiritual benefits. These six fasts are highly recommended and carry the reward of fasting an entire year.
In this post, we’ll cover the significance of fasting these six days, the rulings around it, and practical tips to help you incorporate this virtuous act into your life. By understanding the spiritual value and making these fasts a priority, you can maximize your reward.
What Are the 6 Days of Shawwal?
Shawwal is the month that immediately follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. Fasting during the six days of Shawwal holds great merit in Islamic tradition. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as though he fasted the entire year.”
– [Sahih Muslim]
The Calculation of Reward
This hadith highlights the unique reward of fasting in Shawwal. Scholars explain that, according to Islamic principles, a good deed is rewarded tenfold. Thus, fasting for 30 days in Ramadan earns the reward of fasting for 300 days, and fasting six more days in Shawwal completes the equivalent of 360 days — a full lunar year.
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Rulings and Conditions for Fasting the Six Days of Shawwal
- Fasting Six Days of Shawwal is Sunnah
The majority of scholars, including those from the Hanafi, Shafi’i, and Hanbali schools of thought, agree that fasting the six days of Shawwal is highly recommended (sunnah mustahabbah). It’s not obligatory but carries significant reward. This practice is based on clear evidence from the Sunnah, as mentioned in the hadiths above. - Fasting Sequentially or Separately
There is flexibility in how you can fast these six days. Some scholars, like those from the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools, recommend fasting them consecutively to hasten toward good deeds. However, it’s also permissible to fast them non-consecutively throughout the month of Shawwal. Both ways are equally acceptable and fulfill the Sunnah. - Avoiding the Day of Eid
It is impermissible (haram) to fast on the day of Eid al-Fitr. Therefore, the earliest you can begin fasting the six days of Shawwal is the day after Eid. Fasting on Eid itself is sinful and is strongly discouraged in all schools of thought.
Why Should You Fast Right After Eid?
While you can fast these days at any time during Shawwal, there are practical advantages to fasting them immediately after Eid:
- Building Consistency: After fasting for 30 days in Ramadan, continuing with six more days helps maintain the habit of fasting.
- Avoiding Procrastination: Delaying these fasts might lead to laziness, and you may miss out on the opportunity due to unforeseen circumstances. Fasting early ensures that you fulfill this Sunnah without the risk of missing it.
As Imam Nawawi mentioned, it’s essential to capitalize on spiritual energy and momentum, especially when it comes to acts that are optional but carry immense rewards.
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Spiritual Benefits of Fasting Shawwal
Fasting the six days of Shawwal provides several spiritual benefits:
- It Completes the Reward of a Year of Fasting
As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explained, fasting these days combined with Ramadan grants the reward of fasting for the entire year. - It Helps Sustain the Spirituality of Ramadan
After a month of heightened worship and devotion, Shawwal fasting helps maintain the sense of discipline and closeness to Allah. It prevents the spiritual “dip” that many experience after Ramadan. - It Shows Commitment to Voluntary Acts of Worship
Fasting beyond Ramadan demonstrates a love for voluntary acts of worship (nawafil) and a desire to earn Allah’s pleasure through optional deeds.
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How to Prepare and Make the Most of the Shawwal Fasts
- Set Your Intention
As with all acts of worship, begin by renewing your intention (niyyah) to please Allah and follow the Sunnah. This spiritual mindset will keep you motivated throughout the fasts. - Plan Your Days
It’s easier to complete these fasts when you have a plan. Look at your schedule and block off the days when you can fast. Whether consecutive or spread out, make it a priority and stick to it. - Balance Your Nutrition
Eating a balanced diet during the non-fasting hours is important. Since the fasts aren’t obligatory, you can choose days when you feel physically able and are not overwhelmed by work or other responsibilities. - Make Du’a for Consistency
Ask Allah for the strength and determination to complete the six fasts. The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended making du’a for help in performing acts that are good for us spiritually.
Conclusion: Seize the Opportunity
Fasting the six days of Shawwal is a unique and valuable act of worship that extends the blessings of Ramadan. By planning ahead and maintaining your spiritual momentum, you can earn the immense reward of fasting for the entire year. Whether you fast consecutively or spread them throughout Shawwal, the opportunity to gain closeness to Allah is one that should not be missed.
FAQs About Fasting the Six Days of Shawwal
Can I combine missed fasts from Ramadan with the six days of Shawwal?
There is a difference of opinion among scholars. Some permit combining the intention of making up missed fasts with the intention of fasting Shawwal. However, to maximize your reward, it’s best to make up missed Ramadan fasts first and then perform the six Shawwal fasts separately.
What if I can’t fast all six days?
Fasting any number of days in Shawwal will still be rewarded, but the hadith specifically mentions the reward of fasting for a year applies to those who complete all six days.
Can I fast on the weekends only?
Yes, you can fast on any days during Shawwal, whether they are consecutive or spread out, as long as they are not on the prohibited days (Eid al-Fitr).