6 fasts of shawal offer a rare chance to gain the reward of a full year of fasting. But how many Muslims take advantage of this Sunnah? A 2023 Pew Research study found that 93% of Muslims fast during Ramadan, yet far fewer observe the 6 fasts of shawal. Are you missing out on this extra reward? Learn the rules, benefits, and best way to complete these fasts before the month ends!
What are the 6 fasts of shawal?
6 fasts of shawal are voluntary fasts observed in Shawwal, the month following Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. These fasts are not obligatory but are highly encouraged as they complete the reward of fasting for a whole year. They help maintain spiritual momentum, increase self-discipline, and bring extra blessings. Muslims can fast these six days consecutively or separately throughout Shawwal, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
What Is the Ruling on Fasting the 6 fasts of shawal?
Fasting six days in Shawal is a voluntary act of worship with great rewards. It is not obligatory, but it is a confirmed Sunnah encouraged by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Understanding the Ruling on Fasting the 6 fasts of shawal
- Not Required but Highly Recommended Missing these fasts carries no sin, but observing them brings immense rewards.
- Scholars Agree on Its Virtue Scholars consider it a strong Sunnah, though opinions differ on whether it is nearly obligatory.
- Fasting Ramadan Comes First If you have missed Ramadan fasts, make them up before fasting Shawal.
Fasting these six days completes the reward of a full year of fasting, bringing spiritual blessings and self-discipline.
4 Ways: Can We Combine Broken With Shawwal Fasts?
Fasting six days in Shawwal after completing Ramadan carries great rewards. Someone who fasts during Ramadan and observes the six days of Shawwal is considered to have fasted for a lifetime, according to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Reference : Sunan Abi Dawud 2433
These fasts increase faith, bring spiritual rewards, and complete the blessings of Ramadan. However, if you have missed Ramadan fasts, you may wonder: Can we combine broken with Shawal fasts?
1. Missed Ramadan Fasts: A Priority
If you missed any Ramadan fasts, you must make them up first before starting the voluntary six fasts of Shawal.
- Missed Ramadan fasts are obligatory and must be completed first.
- Shawwal fasts are voluntary, meaning they come after fulfilling obligatory fasts.
- Scholars compare this to prayer: You must complete missed obligatory prayers before performing extra (nafl) prayers.
Completing your Ramadan fasts ensures that you fully benefit from the reward of fasting an entire month before adding voluntary acts.
2. Each Fast Requires a Separate Intention
In Islam, every act of worship must have a clear intention (niyyah).
- Missed Ramadan fasts: The intention should be to make up for missed days.
- Shawwal fasts: The intention should be specifically for the six voluntary fasts.
One single fast cannot fulfill two separate intentions. You must choose whether to make up a Ramadan fast or observe a Shawal fast.
How to Complete Both Fasts?
If you have missed Ramadan fasts and still want to fast in Shawal, you have options:
1. Finish Missed Ramadan Fasts First (Recommended)
- Complete your missed Ramadan fasts first.
- Then, fast six days in Shawwal before the month ends.
2. Alternate Between Missed and Shawal Fasts
- Fast one day for Ramadan, then one day for Shawal in a pattern.
- Continue this cycle until both fasts are completed.
3. Fast Shawal First, Then Make Up Ramadan
- Some scholars permit fasting Shawwal first, then making up Ramadan fasts later.
- However, it is better to complete your missed Ramadan fasts first.
4. Spread the Shawwal Fasts Throughout the Month
- The six fasts of Shawwal do not need to be consecutive.
- You can fast on any six days that fit your schedule.
Can You Combine the Intentions of Missed Ramadan and Shawwal Fasts?
No, one fast cannot count for both obligations at the same time.
However, some scholars mention that if you fast a missed Ramadan day in Shawal, you may still hope for the rewards of both fasts. But this does not replace the six separate Shawwal fasts.
For maximum rewards, complete Ramadan fasts first, then observe the six voluntary Shawwal fasts separately.
What If You’re Unsure About Your Situation?
If you have doubts due to:
- Health conditions
- Travel plans
- A large number of missed fasts
Consult a knowledgeable Islamic scholar for guidance on managing your fasts effectively.
Finally:
- Missed Ramadan fasts take priority over Shawal fasts.
- Each fast must have a separate intention—you cannot combine both.
- You can complete both by finishing Ramadan fasts first or alternating between them.
- If unsure, seek scholarly guidance to fulfill your fasting obligations correctly.
By following these steps, you will maximize your rewards while ensuring your fasts are performed correctly.
What Are the 12 Benefits of Fasting in Shawal?
The six fasts of Shawal bring lasting rewards and help maintain the spiritual momentum of Ramadan. This Sunnah practice strengthens faith, builds discipline, and offers great blessings. Here’s what are benefits of fasting in shawal and why you should consider fasting in it:
1. Reward Equal to a Year of Fasting
- Fasting in Ramadan equals ten months of fasting in reward.
- Adding six days in Shawwal completes the reward of an entire year (Muslim).
2. Fulfills a Sunnah of the Prophet
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged fasting in Shawwal.
- Following this Sunnah strengthens your faith and brings spiritual benefits.
3. Shows Gratitude to Allah
- Fasting after Ramadan is a way of thanking Allah for His blessings.
- Gratitude brings more barakah (blessings) and spiritual peace.
4. Increases Rewards for Good Deeds
- Every act of worship is multiplied ten times in reward.
- Six voluntary fasts add two extra months of reward to your fasting record.
5. Strengthens Self-Discipline
- Helps maintain self-control and fasting habits developed in Ramadan.
- Keeps you focused on spiritual growth and resisting temptations.
6. Maintains the Ramadan Spirit
- Keeps the heart connected to Allah beyond Ramadan.
- Prevents a sudden return to old habits after Eid celebrations.
7. Helps Make Up for Missed Ramadan Fasts
- If you missed any fasts in Ramadan, Shawwal fasts help you stay consistent.
- They encourage completing obligations while earning extra rewards.
8. Increases Acceptance of Ramadan Fasts
- Following one good deed with another is a sign of acceptance from Allah.
- Shawwal fasts serve as evidence of sincere worship in Ramadan.
9. Boosts Spiritual Strength
- Continues the habit of seeking forgiveness and making dua.
- Increases the feeling of closeness to Allah.
10. Improves Physical and Mental Health
- Helps the body adjust after Ramadan by cleansing and detoxifying.
- Increases energy levels and focus through controlled eating.
11. Provides More Opportunities for Dua
- The dua of a fasting person is accepted (Tirmidhi).
- Another chance to pray for blessings, guidance, and forgiveness.
12. Build a Habit of Regular Fasting
- Encourages fasting on Mondays, Thursdays, or the White Days (13th, 14th, and 15th of each month).
- Helps develop a lifelong commitment to voluntary fasting.
Fasting six days in Shawwal completes your Ramadan rewards, strengthens your faith, and keeps your spiritual habits alive. The benefits of fasting in Shawwal go beyond spiritual rewards—it helps maintain discipline, gratitude, and self-control. It’s a small effort with great blessings, bringing peace, discipline, and closeness to Allah.
May Allah accept your six days of Shawwal fasting and reward you as if you fasted the whole year!
Summary
Observing the 6 fasts of Shawal brings great rewards and strengthens your faith. It’s a chance to continue the spiritual journey of Ramadan, increase self-discipline, and earn blessings equal to fasting for a whole year. Don’t miss this golden opportunity! Start your six days now and experience the benefits firsthand. Need guidance on Quran recitation? Visit Rahiq Academy for expert-led courses that help you improve fluency and understanding.
FAQ’s
Q:Do the6 fasts of shawal Need to Be Consecutive?
A:No, the 6 fasts of shawal do not have to be completed in consecutive days. You can fast any six days within Shawwal, choosing consecutive or separate days based on your preference.
Q:When can I observe Shawwal’s 6 fasts?
A:You can observe the 6 fasts of shawal on any six days during the month of Shawwal, excluding the first day of Shawwal, which is Eid al-Fitr.
Q:Why are the 6 fasts of shawal significant in Islam?
A:The 6 fasts of Shawal are significant as they complete the reward of a full year of fasting and help Muslims continue good deeds after Ramadan.
Q: Can women observe the 6 fasts of shawal?
A:Yes, women are encouraged to observe the 6 fasts of Shawal, just as men are.
Q:What are the rewards for observing the 6 fasts of shawal?
A:The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said fasting Ramadan and six days of Shawwal equals the reward of fasting a lifetime (Muslim). It completes blessings and increases spiritual rewards.
Q:What If I Miss the 6 Days of Shawal?
A:If you don’t complete them before Shawwal ends, you miss out on the reward, but there is no sin since these fasts are voluntary.
Q:How to Make the Intention (Niyyah) for Shawwal Fasts?
A:Make a sincere intention in your heart to fast for Allah’s sake and follow the Sunnah. ASaying it aloud is not required. Example: “I intend to fast today as one of my six Shawwal fasts for Allah.
