The Reward of a Year’s Fasting: 5 Virtues of Fasting in Syawal

After completing the obligatory fasting of Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to continue their spiritual journey by observing six days of voluntary fasting in the month of Syawal. This sunnah practice carries immense rewards and benefits that should not be overlooked. Here are five key virtues of fasting in Syawal:

1. Equivalent to a Year of Fasting

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that whoever fasts during Ramadan and follows it with six days of fasting in Syawal will be rewarded as if they had fasted for an entire year. According to a hadith narrated by Muslim:

مَنْ صَامَ رَمَضَانَ وَأَتْبَعَهُ سِتَّاً مِنْ شَوَّالٍ، كَانَ كَصِيَامِ الدَّهْرِ

“Whoever fasts during Ramadan and follows it with six days of Syawal, it is as if he has fasted for a lifetime.” (HR Muslim)

This is further supported by the Quran in Surah Al-An’am (6:160), which explains that every good deed is rewarded tenfold. Based on this calculation, fasting during Ramadan is equivalent to ten months, and fasting for six days in Syawal is equivalent to two months, thus completing a full year’s worth of fasting.

2. Complements Ramadan Fasting

Just as voluntary prayers (sunnah rawatib) complement obligatory prayers, fasting in Syawal serves as a way to perfect and enhance the fasting of Ramadan. It acts as a means to make up for any shortcomings during Ramadan and strengthens one’s commitment to worship.

3. A Sign of Acceptance of Ramadan Fasting

Observing the six-day fast in Syawal can be a sign that one’s fasting during Ramadan has been accepted by Allah. Consistency in worship beyond Ramadan reflects sincerity and devotion, demonstrating that spiritual growth is not limited to a single month but continues throughout the year.

4. A Form of Gratitude

Fasting in Syawal is also a way to express gratitude for the blessings and forgiveness received during Ramadan. By voluntarily fasting, believers show appreciation for the opportunity to purify themselves and seek further rewards from Allah.

5. Maintains Spiritual Discipline

Continuing to fast after Ramadan helps maintain discipline and consistency in worship. It prevents a sudden drop in spiritual momentum and ensures that the habits formed during Ramadan—such as self-restraint, devotion, and mindfulness—carry over into daily life.

Don't Miss Out on Syawal Fasting

The six-day fast in Syawal can be observed anytime between the 2nd of Syawal and the end of the month. Although it is preferable to fast consecutively, it is also permissible to spread the days throughout the month. Additionally, those who still have missed Ramadan fasts are encouraged to make up for them before performing the Syawal fast.

By understanding and practicing the virtues of fasting in Syawal, Muslims can maximize their rewards and sustain their spiritual growth beyond Ramadan.