As the month of Ramadan ends, many of us feel a spiritual high — a closeness to Allah, a sense of discipline, and a yearning to continue the momentum. One beautiful way to keep that spirit alive is by fasting six days in the month of Shawwal.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he has fasted for a lifetime.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Why Six Days?
According to Islamic teachings, Allah multiplies good deeds. So fasting 30 days in Ramadan, multiplied by 10, equals 300 days. Add six days from Shawwal (6×10 = 60), and you’ve got the reward of fasting for 360 days — essentially a full year.
Key Points to Know:
- Flexibility: You can fast the six days consecutively or spread them out across the month — whatever suits you best.
- Make up missed fasts first: It’s recommended to complete any missed Ramadan fasts before starting the six of Shawwal.
- Not obligatory, but highly rewarding: These fasts are not fardh (obligatory) but are a Sunnah Mu’akkadah (strongly encouraged).
The Spiritual Benefit
Fasting in Shawwal is more than just an act of worship — it’s a way to:
- Sustain your spiritual growth after Ramadan
- Stay connected to the discipline and reflection that fasting brings
- Show gratitude to Allah for allowing you to complete the month of Ramadan
A Gentle Reminder
Shawwal is a short month — don’t let the opportunity slip by. Set your intention and begin, even if you fast one day at a time.
Let the barakah of Ramadan extend beyond Eid.