6 Fasts of Shawwal: How to Earn the Reward of Fasting an Entire Year
After the blessed month of Ramadan ends with the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, many Muslims assume that the peak time for عبادah (worship) has passed. However, Islam provides a powerful opportunity to continue earning immense rewards—the six fasts of Shawwal.
These six voluntary fasts carry a reward so عظیم (great) that the Prophet ﷺ described them as equivalent to fasting for an entire year. This blog explores the importance, rewards, rules, and practical tips for observing the six fasts of Shawwal, using authentic Hadith and SEO-optimized insights.
What Are the 6 Fasts of Shawwal?
The six fasts of Shawwal are voluntary (nafl) fasts observed anytime during the month of Shawwal, which follows Ramadan.
They are:
- Not obligatory
- Highly recommended (Sunnah)
- Extremely rewarding
You can fast them:
- Consecutively after Eid
- Or spread throughout the month
The Powerful Hadith Behind Shawwal Fasting
The immense reward of these fasts comes from a well-known Hadith:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted the entire year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This Hadith alone makes Shawwal fasting one of the most valuable عبادah opportunities after Ramadan.
How Do 6 Fasts Equal an Entire Year?
Islam teaches that:
Every good deed is multiplied by 10.
Simple Calculation:
- 30 days of Ramadan × 10 = 300 days
- 6 days of Shawwal × 10 = 60 days
- Total = 360 days (approximately a full year)
This is a mercy from Allah—a small effort with massive reward.
Why Fasting Shawwal Is So Important
1. A Sign of Accepted Ramadan
One of the greatest indicators that your Ramadan was accepted is your ability to continue عبادah afterward.
Fasting in Shawwal shows:
- Sincerity
- Commitment
- Love for عبادah
2. Continuity of Worship
Islam emphasizes consistency.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
The six fasts help maintain your spiritual momentum after Ramadan.
3. Protection from Spiritual Decline
Many Muslims experience a drop in iman after Ramadan. Shawwal fasting:
- Keeps you disciplined
- Prevents العودة إلى الذنوب (returning to sins)
- Strengthens your connection with Allah
4. Multiplied Rewards with Minimal Effort
Fasting just six days:
- Brings reward of a full year
- Elevates your spiritual rank
- Increases your حسنات (good deeds)
Rules of Fasting 6 Days of Shawwal
1. When to Start?
- You cannot fast on Eid day
- Start from 2nd of Shawwal onward
2. Consecutive or Non-Consecutive?
- Both are allowed
- Choose what is easier for you
3. Can You Combine Intentions?
Scholars differ, but:
- It’s better to keep Shawwal fasts separate
- Especially from missed (Qadha) fasts
4. What About Missed Ramadan Fasts?
- Ideally, make up missed fasts first
- Then fast Shawwal for full reward
Best Ways to Complete 6 Fasts Easily
Option 1: Consecutive Fasting
- Fast 6 days straight after Eid
- Finish early and stay consistent
Option 2: Weekly Plan
- Fast Mondays and Thursdays
- Complete within 3 weeks
Option 3: Spread Across Month
- Choose any 6 days
- Flexible for busy schedules
Spiritual Benefits of Shawwal Fasting
1. Strengthens Taqwa (God-Consciousness)
Fasting helps you stay mindful of Allah even after Ramadan.
2. Builds Discipline
Continuing fasting builds long-term self-control.
3. Keeps You Connected to Ramadan Spirit
You don’t “lose” Ramadan—you extend it.
4. Increases Love for عبادah
You begin to enjoy worship, not just perform it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Skipping Shawwal fasts completely
- ❌ Thinking they are not important
- ❌ Delaying until the month ends
- ❌ Treating Ramadan as the “end” of worship
Pro Tips to Maximize Reward
- Make sincere intention (niyyah)
- Combine with Monday/Thursday Sunnah fasts
- Stay consistent in Salah and Qur’an
- Avoid sins that reduce reward
Shawwal: Your Opportunity for a Full Year of Reward
The six fasts of Shawwal are a gift from Allah—a simple act with extraordinary reward. They prove that Islam is not about occasional عبادah but consistent devotion.
By fasting these six days, you:
- Earn the reward of an entire year
- Strengthen your iman
- Continue your Ramadan journey
Conclusion
The journey of a believer does not end with Eid al-Fitr—it continues through Shawwal and beyond. The six fasts of Shawwal are a powerful opportunity to multiply your rewards, maintain spiritual discipline, and draw closer to Allah.
Don’t miss this chance to turn a few days of effort into a year of blessings.