The Blessings of Fasting 6 Days in Shawwal

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

Just like that, the blessed month of Ramadan has passed. Though the idea of fasting for an entire month may have seemed daunting before it began, many of us now find ourselves longing for its spiritual sweetness. As we bid farewell to Ramadan, we ask ourselves: *How can we sustain its blessings?
The Prophet ﷺ provided the perfect solution—fasting six days in Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan. While not obligatory, this act of devotion carries immense rewards. The best part? These fasts need not be consecutive; any six days within Shawwal will suffice.

The Rewards of Fasting in Shawwal

1. The Reward of a Full Year of Fasting

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if they have fasted an entire year.” (Sahih Muslim)

Scholars explain that since every good deed is multiplied tenfold, fasting Ramadan (30 days) equals 300 days, and six days of Shawwal equal 60 days—totaling a full year (360 days). Imagine the reward for those who uphold this practice annually—they will meet Allah as if they had fasted their entire lives!

2. Reviving the Ramadan Spirit

Keep the Ramadan momentum alive by fasting with family and friends. Share the joy of suhoor and iftar, strengthening bonds while earning divine rewards together.

3. Compensating for Shortcomings in Ramadan

The Prophet ﷺ said: “The first thing for which a person will be brought to account on the Day of Resurrection is their prayer. If it is complete, their voluntary prayers will elevate them. If it is lacking, Allah will say: ‘See if My servant has any voluntary prayers to complete what is missing.’ The same applies to all deeds.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

Our voluntary fasts can compensate for any deficiencies in our Ramadan worship and increase our good deeds.

4. Building Lasting Spiritual Habits

Ramadan is a spiritual reset—a chance to leave sins behind and cultivate righteous habits. By fasting six days in Shawwal (such as every Monday and Thursday, or the *Ayyām al-Bīḍ*—the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the month), we lay the foundation for lifelong devotion. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized that *the most beloved deeds to Allah are those done consistently, even if small.*

5. Cultivating Gratitude

Fasting nurtures gratitude by reminding us of Allah’s countless blessings—food, water, and health. The more we fast, the more we appreciate His favors.

For those unable to fast, there are still countless ways to earn rewards. Check out our resources on maintaining spiritual growth beyond Ramadan.

May Allah accept our fasts and grant us the strength to continue worshiping Him with sincerity. آمين!