After the completion of the holy month of Ramadhan, Muslims are encouraged to observe six voluntary fasts during the month of Shawwal, which begins right after the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. These six days of fasting, although not obligatory, carry immense spiritual significance and are believed to bring great reward, compensating for any shortcomings during the obligatory fasts of Ramadhan.
Ramadhan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, charity, and deep reflection. It is followed by Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, which begins with the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadhan. Eid al-Fitr is a day of festivity, where Muslims come together to offer prayers, pay Zakat al-Fitr (charity for the poor), and enjoy the blessings of completing the month-long fast. However, the first day of Shawwal is reserved for celebration and is not a day for fasting.
Fasting the six days of Shawwal holds immense spiritual merit, with a reward equivalent to fasting for an entire year. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Whoever fasts Ramadhan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime” (Sahih Muslim, 1163). This hadith highlights the great importance of this voluntary act of worship.
The six days of fasting can be observed on any day within the month of Shawwal, except on Eid al-Fitr. Scholars suggest that fasting during this time helps Muslims maintain the good habits they cultivated during Ramadhan, such as gratitude, moderation in food consumption, and empathy for the less fortunate. It is a time for reflection and an opportunity to continue the spiritual growth initiated in Ramadhan.
As this year’s Eid al-Fitr celebration approaches, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has declared Monday, 31st March 2025, as a public holiday to mark the occasion. This makes it an ideal time for Muslims to begin their six days of voluntary fasting, embracing the spiritual rewards and blessings that come with it.
