06 April, 2025
Fasting six days of Shawwal is a highly recommended Sunnah that comes after the blessed month of Ramadan.
This practice, though optional, holds immense spiritual value and has been emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in several authentic hadiths.
In this article, we will explore the virtues, rulings, and practical advice related to fasting six days of Shawwal, with a particular focus on topics such as the rewards of fasting six days of Shawwal after Eid, how to combine Shawwal fasting with missed Ramadan fasts, and whether one can fast Shawwal six days non-consecutively.
After the spiritual high of Ramadan, the month of Shawwal offers believers a beautiful opportunity to continue their journey of piety and self-discipline. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime."
This hadith, narrated in Sahih Muslim, highlights the enormous rewards of fasting six days of Shawwal after Eid. It demonstrates how Allah multiplies rewards for those who strive to maintain acts of worship even after obligatory acts have ended.
The rewards of fasting six days of Shawwal after Eid are not merely symbolic. Scholars explain that since a good deed is rewarded tenfold in Islam, fasting 30 days of Ramadan equals 300 days, and fasting six days of Shawwal adds another 60 days. Together, that’s equivalent to a full lunar year of fasting.
Moreover, continuing to fast shortly after Ramadan helps preserve the spiritual habits developed during the holy month. It strengthens one’s relationship with Allah and renews the intention to remain consistent in acts of worship throughout the year.
One common question arises: how to combine Shawwal fasting with missed Ramadan fasts?
Women who missed days due to menstruation, or those who were ill or traveling during Ramadan, might wonder whether they should make up their missed fasts before fasting Shawwal. Scholars have differing opinions, but many recommend that obligatory fasts should be completed first. The best approach is to make up the missed fasts early in Shawwal and then complete the six days afterward.
That said, some scholars permit combining the intention for both (Qada and Shawwal), but with the understanding that the full reward as mentioned in the hadith may not be guaranteed.
Practical Tip:
If you missed five days of Ramadan, complete them in the first week of Shawwal, then continue with the six Sunnah fasts to reap the full reward.
Another frequently asked question is: can I fast Shawwal six days non-consecutively?
The answer is yes. Scholars agree that the six fasts do not need to be performed consecutively. They can be spread across the month of Shawwal, as long as all six days are completed before the month ends. This flexibility makes it easier for working professionals, students, and busy parents to incorporate this Sunnah into their routine without undue hardship.
Practical Tip:
Consider fasting on Mondays and Thursdays throughout Shawwal, as these are also days the Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged fasting.
In addition to the direct rewards of fasting six days of Shawwal after Eid, there are several other benefits:
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Habit-building: It helps believers stay disciplined and consistent in their worship.
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Spiritual cleansing: Continuing with fasting after Ramadan maintains the purity achieved during the holy month.
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Physical detox: Fasting allows the body to gradually adjust post-Ramadan instead of sudden changes.
It’s important to remember that fasting six days of Shawwal is Sunnah (voluntary) and not an obligation. Missing these fasts does not incur sin but forfeits a great opportunity for immense reward. The emphasis is on intention, consistency, and devotion.
To make the most out of Shawwal, here’s a suggested fasting schedule:
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Days 2-7 of Shawwal: Complete missed Ramadan fasts
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Following two weeks: Fast Mondays and Thursdays to complete the six Sunnah days
This balanced approach allows for both Qada and Sunnah fasting without overwhelming your schedule.
Q1: Can I combine intentions for missed Ramadan fasts and the six days of Shawwal?
A: Some scholars allow it, but for full reward, it’s preferable to fast missed days first, then fast six separate days for Shawwal.
Q2: Can I fast Shawwal six days non-consecutively?
A: Yes, as long as all six days are completed within the month of Shawwal.
Q3: What if I forget to fast six days of Shawwal?
A: You are not sinful, but you miss out on the rewards. Try to make up for it with other voluntary fasts during the year.
Q4: Can I fast on Fridays or Saturdays?
A: It’s better to fast on Fridays only if combined with Thursday or Saturday. Avoid fasting Saturday alone unless it coincides with a habit or occasion.
Fasting six days of Shawwal is a golden chance to keep the momentum of Ramadan going. With flexibility in how you observe these fasts, and great rewards of fasting six days of Shawwal after Eid, there’s every reason to take advantage of this beautiful Sunnah. Whether you fast consecutively or spread the days across the month, whether you’re making up Ramadan fasts or combining them with Shawwal—the key is consistency, sincerity, and striving to grow spiritually.
Take this as your invitation to invest in your hereafter with just six more days of devotion. May Allah accept our fasting and grant us the full reward of a lifetime of worship.
