Fasting in Shawwal- Significance & Virtues

Fasting in Shawwal brings many benefits and blessings, as well as the opportunity to atone for any transgressions made throughout the blessed month of Ramadan. The Shawwal fast is meant to make up for any missed Ramadan fasting days (for which you must pay Fidya or Kaffarah, depending on your interpretation), rather than to make up for any deficiencies in our behavior during this time.

Also, the significance of fasting for 6  days during the month of Shawwal is observed from ahadith which any believer cannot deny in either way.

Ahadith About Significance of fasting in shawwal

Every Muslim who has attained puberty is obligated to fast throughout Ramadan. We do know, however, that other ways to show obedience to Allah (SWT) are rewarded as well. Such unselfish affection is lavishly rewarded.

1.  “Whoever fasts in Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.” (Narrated by Muslim, Abu Dawood, Al-Tirmidhi, al-Nisaai and Ibn Maajah).
2. “The fast of Ramadan is like observing 10 months of fasting. Fasting six days of Shawwal is like observing two months of fasting. This together is like fasting throughout the year.” (Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah (2115) and Sunan al-Nasa’i al-Kubra (2860))

Is fasting in Shawwal obligatory?

The significance of fasting in the month of Shawwal has no doubt an advanced level. Still, Fasting for six days during Shawwal following the Ramadan fast is Sunnah Mustahabbah, not wajib. Fasting for six days during Shawwal is recommended for Muslims, and there is great virtue and reward in doing so.

What Days Should You Fast in Shawwal?

There are no special days to fast in Shawwal. Still, some schools of thought prefers to fast the very next day after eid and then consequently. Also, some find it better to keep fasting in consequent 6 days at any time.

Another approach to honor Shawwal’s fast is to observe Ayyam Al Bid, a three-day fast in the middle of the month. Muslims  fast on the 13th, 14th, and 15th days of each Islamic month since it is sunnah of Sahaba Karam. To complete the entire six days of fasting, the extra three days are observed either before or after the fast over Ayyam Al Bid in this month as well.

Thanks to Allah SWT who game us courage to fast for an entire month of Ramadan. We seek help from his side to bless us with added courage to fast for Masnoon fasts in Shawwal. 

Thanks for Reading this Article. Jazakallah!

Also, check what What Quran Says About Ramadan.