As the blessed month of Ramadan comes to a close, Muslims around the world welcome the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. The first day of Shawwal is marked by the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, a celebration of spiritual renewal, gratitude, and giving. But the blessings do not end there—Shawwal is a precious opportunity to sustain the momentum of Ramadan, deepen our connection with Allah (SWT), and seek continued reward.
What is the Month of Shawwal in Islam?
The month of Shawwal is the 10th month in the Islamic lunar calendar, beginning with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr—the joyous festival marking the end of Ramadan. For many Muslims, it signifies a spiritual continuation and a chance to maintain the momentum of good deeds, worship, and personal growth gained during the holy month of Ramadan.
Shawwal is more than a celebration—it is a month of continued mercy, reflection, and renewed purpose.
Beyond Ramadan: Hold On to the Light
After a month of fasting, prayer, and charity, many of us feel spiritually uplifted and deeply connected to our faith. That feeling of nearness to Allah is not exclusive to Ramadan—it can be nurtured and carried forward through acts of consistency.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are those done regularly, even if they are small.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
This is a gentle reminder to hold tight to the good habits formed in Ramadan. Whether it’s prayer, fasting, or giving in charity, continuing these practices—even on a smaller scale—keeps our hearts aligned with divine purpose.
When Does Shawwal Start and End?
In 2025, Shawwal began on March 30th, coinciding with Eid al-Fitr celebrations for most of the global Muslim community. The month is expected to end on April 28th, subject to the lunar sighting.
The first day of Shawwal is not only a day of festivity, but also a day of gratitude and generosity. On this day, Muslims pay Zakat al-Fitr (Sadaqat ul-Fitr) to ensure those in need can join in the joy of Eid.
The Gift of Fasting Six Days of Shawwal
One of the greatest virtues of Shawwal is the opportunity to fast six voluntary days, which the Prophet (peace be upon him) described as equivalent to fasting for an entire year:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if they have fasted the whole year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
These six fasts can be observed consecutively or spread throughout the month—offering immense reward and a chance to perfect the spiritual gains of Ramadan.
At Muslim Food Bank and Community Services, we encourage our community to not only maintain acts of personal worship like fasting but also to continue caring for others through charity and service. Your support can help feed families, uplift those in crisis, and continue the good you began in Ramadan.
Shawwal and the Pilgrimage Season
Shawwal also marks the beginning of the Hajj season. It is the first of the three months—Shawwal, Dhul-Qi’dah, and Dhul-Hijjah—known as Ash-hur Al-Hajj (the Months of Hajj). Pilgrims may begin their sacred journey preparations and perform initial rites such as Tawaf al-Qudum (arrival circumambulation) during Shawwal.
This reinforces the month’s spiritual significance, as it bridges Ramadan’s self-purification with Hajj’s ultimate journey to the House of Allah.
Can You Fast Shawwal Before Making Up Missed Ramadan Fasts?
This is a common question—especially for those who missed fasts due to illness, menstruation, or travel. Scholars have provided two main views:
View 1: Fulfill Obligatory Fasts First
The majority of scholars recommend making up missed obligatory Ramadan fasts before performing the voluntary Shawwal fasts. Obligatory acts (fardh) hold precedence, and fulfilling them is a duty before seeking extra reward.
“So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during Ramadan] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up] later.”
(Qur’an 2:185)
This approach helps ensure one’s religious obligations met fully before engaging in extra worship.
View 2: Shawwal Fasts First if Time is Short
However, some scholars permit fasting the six days of Shawwal first if the number of missed fasts is extensive, such as for those who were pregnant, nursing, or ill for much of Ramadan. The reasoning is to not miss the narrow window of Shawwal, while still ensuring missed Ramadan fasts are made up later in the year.
Finding Balance: A Practical Approach
If you only missed a few fasts, a good approach is to begin the month by making up those fasts early and follow them with the six voluntary ones.
But whatever your plan, the key is intention. Allah (SWT) rewards sincere effort. Whether you’re catching up on missed fasts, starting Shawwal fasts, or supporting others in need—do it with love and dedication.
Continuing the Spirit of Ramadan with Muslim Food Bank
Ramadan is about more than personal worship—it’s about community, compassion, and action. Shawwal gives us a chance to extend that spirit of giving.
Through your ongoing support, Muslim Food Bank and Community Services provides essential assistance to families facing food insecurity, poverty, and hardship. By fasting and giving in Shawwal, you double your reward: one for personal devotion, the other for helping your community thrive.
Let’s carry the light of Ramadan into Shawwal—and beyond.
“And complete the fast and glorify Allah for guiding you, so that you may be grateful.”(Qur’an 2:185)
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