WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE MONTH OF SHAWWAL?

What is the Significance of the Month of Shawwal?

Shawwal is important because it is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar and a symbolic time of renewal for Muslims. 

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) fasted 6 days during the month of Shawwal. This is considered Sunnah, and is a great way to keep up the momentum of fasting after Ramadan and the spiritual benefits of doing so.

When is Shawwal?

Shawwal is the month that follows right after Ramadan. Eid al-fitr marks the start of this holy month. Shawwal starts on April 10, 2024 and ends on May 10, 2024. 

What is the significance of Shawwal? 

Shawwal signifies new life and renewal after a month of spiritual cleansing. 

Considered a transformative period for Muslims, this month provides many opportunities to carry over the momentum of good habits established during Ramadan into Shawwal. 

These opportunities and blessings are provided in the form of: 

  • Celebrating Eid al-Fitr on the first day of Shawwal

  • Fast any 6 days during this month after Eid and it will combine with Ramadan fasts to be as if one has fasted the whole year

  • The Hajj season commences in Shawwal

  • Many believe that a sign of an accepted Ramadan is that one intends to complete 6 days of Shawwal fasting. It’s a Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), which means that it’s highly recommended for the benefit of the believer. 

“Whosoever fasts during the month of Ramadan and then follows it up with six days of fasting of Shawwal will be rewarded as if he or she had fasted the entire year.”
(Muslim)

Fasting during Shawwal can be a bit of an extra push after a month long of fasts in Ramadan, but it is immensely rewarding. Set the intention and select 6 days after Eid al-fitr to fast, and fill the month with Barakah!