The Month Of Shawwal 2022: Significance, Traditions And Facts
Shawwal is the 10th month in the Islamic calendar following the holy month of Ramadan. It is loved worldwide because the first day of the month is celebrated as Eid al-Fitr. Though the 1st day is celebrated as a feast, Muslims keep a 6 day fast just after Eid al-Fitr. It is believed that fasting 6 days after Eid al-Fitr increases the blessings of Ramadan fasting and makes up for any unintentional deficiency left during Ramadan fasting.
Shawwal Meaning
‘Shawwal’—derived from the Arabic word Sawaal which means ‘raised’—draws its inspiration from the camels who carry their little one during this time. Additionally, it also means breakage/uplift, as, before the establishment of Islam, Arab tribes believed that marriages held in the month of Shawwal would always be unsuccessful.
Importance of Shawwal for Muslims
Fasting in the Ramzan month is one of the pillars of Islam. However, the month of Shawwal is also of special importance to the Muslims. It is during this month that Allah has bestowed the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration. The event is considered to be Allah’s reward for the successful completion of Ramzan.
THE SIX NAFL FASTS OF SHAWWAL
Hazrat Abî Ayyub Radiallâhu anhu relates that Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: “Whoever fasted the full month of Ramadhân and then follows it with six soum[fasts] of Shawwâl, is like the person who has fasted the full year.” (Sahih Muslim)
In another Hadîth it is related that by observing these six fasts after Ramadhân all defaults and sins are forgiven. The reward of every good deed is tenfold or more. The thawâb of the month of Ramadhân is equal to that of ten months and that of these six voluntary siyam are equal to that of the remaining two months to complete the full year. These fast could be kept continuously after Eid-ul‑Fitr or separately during the month of Shawwâl.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SHAWWAL
Shawwal is the tenth lunar month. During the period of ignorance Ramadhân was regarded as a blessed and sacred month. Shawwal was regarded as a cursed month and a month of ill‑omen. The people of that time never married during Shawwal. Due to this Hazrat Ayesha Radiallâhu anha expressed disappointment of the people to consider this month to be inauspicious, as she was married to Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam in this very month. The wrong beliefs of the people was clearly disproven by Hazrat Ayesha Radiallâhu anha by her marriage to Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam in the month of Shawwal which was no obstruction to her elevated position and great love Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam had for her.
To a Muslim the first day of the month of Shawwal, is of very great significance, as this is the day of Eid. On this significant day Allâh showers His glorious rewards of blessings and forgiveness to His servants who have fasted during the month of Ramadhân. It is related from Hazrat Anâs Radiallâhu anhu that Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: “When the day of Eid appears, Allâh proudly asks in the presence of the Angels regarding his fasting servants: ‘O My Angels, what return is there for such labourers who have fully completed their duty?’ The Angels reply, ‘O Rabb they should be rewarded in full,’ then Allâh asks the Angels, ‘O My Angels what is the reward for those male and female servants who have fulfilled My divine command which was compulsory upon them, and now they have come out to beseech Me in Du’â?’ Allâh swears, ‘I take oath upon My grandeur and glory, My generosity and exaltation of My elevated position, that I will definitely accept their Du’âs.’ Thereafter Allâh says: ‘Disperse, I have forgiven you and replaced your sins with good deeds.’ Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam says they return forgiven.’”
Fasting for a period of six days in the holy Shawwal month is of immense virtue to the Muslims. It also compensates for any short falling that one might have made during the fasting of Ramzan. With such religious importance of the Shawwal month, performing Umrah in Shawwal is a pious thought.
Shawwal Fasting
Fasting is an indispensable part of Islamic culture. It helps people detach from the world and focus on devoting themselves to Allah. Though fasting in itself is highly rewarding, fasting during Shawwal offers great benefits. It is believed that fasting after Eid ul-Fitr is equal to fasting throughout the year. Shia Muslims fast six days after Eid, while Sunni Muslims conduct three days of fasting post Eid.
According to a hadith in Sahih Muslims, Prophet Muhammad said:
“Whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan and then follows it with six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for the entire year.”
Benefits of fasting 6 days of Shawwal:
- Rewards of Shawwal fasting 6 days consecutively equates to rewards of fasting throughout the year.
- It covers up and compensates for the deficiency left in Ramadan fast.
- Fasting after Ramadan acts as a sign that Allah has accepted Ramadan fasts and granted an individual the strength to do good deeds of fasting again in Shawwal.
- Shawwal fasting helps an individual seek further guidance from Allah and lead a pious life after Ramadan away from sins.
Fasting in Shawwal Hadith
As per a Hadith explained by the companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, “Whoever fasts in the month of Ramzan and then follows it with six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal, it will be as if he had fasted throughout the year.”
According to another Hadith, “Performing Umrah during Ramadan is equal to hajj.”
That explains why numerous Muslims tend to opt for Umrah in Shawwal. It is essential to note that there is no difference in the ritual itself, irrespective of the timeline. However, rituals will slightly differ for Umrah Mufradah and Umrah Tamattu.
According to the words of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Umrah is a desirable act or a Sunnah for the Muslims. Although there is no specific time to perform Umrah, there is a difference between performing it in the month of Shawwal and the rest of the year.
Umrah in Shawwal
Shawwal is the blessed month in which Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated. Since it is a holy month, performing Umrah in Shawwal is absolutely in compliance with the Islamic Laws. It is vital to note that there are two distinct types of Umrah. One is Umrah al-Tamattu and the other is Umrah al-Mufradah.
Umrah al-Mufradah can be performed by Muslims anytime during the year. However, it must not be done during the time of Hajj. Umrah al-Tamattu is mainly performed along with Hajj. That is why this Umrah is performed in the months of Hajj. These include Dhu al-Hijjah, Dhu al-Qadah, and Shawwal.
It is important to remember that if one opts for Umrah in Shawwal it is in association with Hajj, thereby translating it to the Hajj of Tamattu. Likewise, Umrah that is successfully completed before Shawwal cannot be accepted as the Umrah of Tamattu.
However, there are several conditions one must fulfill to perform Umrah in Shawwal. The most basic of these is that one must be an adult Muslim, who has the physical and the financial capacity to embark on the journey. Women need to have a Mahram or male relative to fulfill the Umrah.
Shawwal Month FAQs
What are the advantages of observing fasting in Shawwal?
One of the most crucial advantages of fasting six days of Shawwal is that it compensates for any deficiency in mandatory Ramadan fasts, as no one is without flaws or sins.
What does it mean to fast during Shawaal?
Shawwal is the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, and Eid ul-Fitr marks the beginning of the Holy Month of Shawwal, which is rejoiced by Muslims. After three days of Eid ul-Fitr, a believer must fast for six days of Shawaal to show that they are humble and grateful to Allah SWT for all the bounties received during the festival.
When should I start fasting during Shawwal?
Because fasting on the day of Eid is haram, one might begin fasting from the second day of Shawwal. Alternatively, it can be done in any order during the month of Shawwal, depending on how convenient it is for the individual.
What makes Shawwal unique?
The ceremony is seen as reward from Allah for completing Ramzan successfully. Fasting for six days during the holy month of Shawwal is highly beneficial to Muslims. It also compensates for any shortfalls that may have occurred during Ramzan fasting.
Who is excused from fasting during Shawaal?
Exemptions apply to children under the age of puberty, the elderly, people who are physically or psychologically unable to fast, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and travellers. From sunrise to sundown, fasting means abstaining from all food and drink, including water and chewing gum.
When does Shawwal end in the year 2022?
Shawwal in 2022 will end on 30th May.
Which month comes after Shawwal?
Dhu al-Qadah, the 11th month in Islamic Calendar, succeeds Shawwal.
How many days are there in Shawwal?
There are 29 or 30 days in Shawwal. The days in the month keep changing from 29 to 30 and vice versa in consecutive years.
Is it allowed to have nikah in the month of Shawwal?
In contrast to the Arab beliefs, it is okay to get married in this month. The two months when Muslims avoid wedding are Muharram and Ramadan
Fasting six days of Shawwal from second day of Shawwal month has lots of Blessings and immense reward. These six days fastings are Sunnah, not wajib.
The person who fasts these six days will rewarded with the rewards of fastings for 1000 fast. Fire will be haram for this person and his ammal (judgement day report) will be filled with immense rewards.
Its not compulsory that a person has to keep the six fasts continuously. He can keep it as per his convenience but it must be done in the same month of Shawwal.
Namaz (Salat and Dua) in Shawwal Month
1) 4 Rakats (2 Salams)
In the first night (After Isha Namaz) of Shawwal month, Pray 4 Rakats with 2 Salams.
In every Rakat, read Sureh Fatiha once and Sureh Iqlas 21 times.
Rewards: Allah will open doors of Janah (Heaven)for this person and close the doors of Jahanam (Hell)
2) 4 Rakats (2 Salams)
In the first night (After Isha Namaz) of Shawwal month, Pray 4 Rakats with 2 Salams.
In every Rakat, read Sureh Fatiha once and Sureh Iqlas, Sureh Falaq and Sureh Naas 3 times.
After Salam Read 3rd Third Kalma (Tamjeed) 70 times given below and repent for his sins in dua
Subhanallahi Wal Hamdulillahi Wa Laa ilaha illal Laho Wallahooakbar. Wala Haola Wala Quwwata illa billahil AliYil Azeem.
Rewards: Allah will forgive his sins and his repentance will be accepted. Insha Allah
3) 8 Rakats (4 Salams) | Namaz on Eid Ul Fitr
On the first day of Shawwal (Day of Eid) after Zuhr Namaz in Afternoon Pray 8 Rakats with 4 salam. In Each Rakat, Read Sureh Fatiha once and Sureh Iqla 25 times.
After Salam Read Subhan Allah 70 Times, Astagfirullah 70 times and below Darood sharif 70 times
Allahumma salli-ala muhammadin nabiyil ummiyi wa-ala alaihi wa ashabihi wa barik wa sallam
Rewards: Allah will grants 70 wishes in this world and 70 wishes on the judgement day and the doors of Rehmat will be opened for him. Insha Allah
Hadiths on Shawwal Fasting (Roza)
1) Sayyiduna Ayyub (Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said,
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days from Shawwal it is as if they fasted the entire year.” [Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, and Ibn Majah; Ahmad transmitted it from Jabir, Muntaqa]
2) Sayyiduna Thawban (Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said,
“Whoever fasts Ramadan, and then six days after Eid, it is an entire year. Whoever does a good deed shall have ten times its reward.” [Ibn Majah, Muntaqa]
Shawwal is the 10th month in the Islamic calendar following the holy month of Ramadan. It is loved worldwide because the first day of the month is celebrated as Eid al-Fitr. Though the 1st day is celebrated as a feast, Muslims keep a 6 day fast just after Eid al-Fitr. It is believed that fasting 6 days after Eid al-Fitr increases the blessings of Ramadan fasting and makes up for any unintentional deficiency left during Ramadan fasting.
Shawwal Meaning
‘Shawwal’—derived from the Arabic word Sawaal which means ‘raised’—draws its inspiration from the camels who carry their little one during this time. Additionally, it also means breakage/uplift, as, before the establishment of Islam, Arab tribes believed that marriages held in the month of Shawwal would always be unsuccessful.
Importance of Shawwal for Muslims
Fasting in the Ramzan month is one of the pillars of Islam. However, the month of Shawwal is also of special importance to the Muslims. It is during this month that Allah has bestowed the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration. The event is considered to be Allah’s reward for the successful completion of Ramzan.
THE SIX NAFL FASTS OF SHAWWAL
Hazrat Abî Ayyub Radiallâhu anhu relates that Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: “Whoever fasted the full month of Ramadhân and then follows it with six soum[fasts] of Shawwâl, is like the person who has fasted the full year.” (Sahih Muslim)
In another Hadîth it is related that by observing these six fasts after Ramadhân all defaults and sins are forgiven. The reward of every good deed is tenfold or more. The thawâb of the month of Ramadhân is equal to that of ten months and that of these six voluntary siyam are equal to that of the remaining two months to complete the full year. These fast could be kept continuously after Eid-ul‑Fitr or separately during the month of Shawwâl.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SHAWWAL
Shawwal is the tenth lunar month. During the period of ignorance Ramadhân was regarded as a blessed and sacred month. Shawwal was regarded as a cursed month and a month of ill‑omen. The people of that time never married during Shawwal. Due to this Hazrat Ayesha Radiallâhu anha expressed disappointment of the people to consider this month to be inauspicious, as she was married to Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam in this very month. The wrong beliefs of the people was clearly disproven by Hazrat Ayesha Radiallâhu anha by her marriage to Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam in the month of Shawwal which was no obstruction to her elevated position and great love Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam had for her.
To a Muslim the first day of the month of Shawwal, is of very great significance, as this is the day of Eid. On this significant day Allâh showers His glorious rewards of blessings and forgiveness to His servants who have fasted during the month of Ramadhân. It is related from Hazrat Anâs Radiallâhu anhu that Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: “When the day of Eid appears, Allâh proudly asks in the presence of the Angels regarding his fasting servants: ‘O My Angels, what return is there for such labourers who have fully completed their duty?’ The Angels reply, ‘O Rabb they should be rewarded in full,’ then Allâh asks the Angels, ‘O My Angels what is the reward for those male and female servants who have fulfilled My divine command which was compulsory upon them, and now they have come out to beseech Me in Du’â?’ Allâh swears, ‘I take oath upon My grandeur and glory, My generosity and exaltation of My elevated position, that I will definitely accept their Du’âs.’ Thereafter Allâh says: ‘Disperse, I have forgiven you and replaced your sins with good deeds.’ Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam says they return forgiven.’”
Fasting for a period of six days in the holy Shawwal month is of immense virtue to the Muslims. It also compensates for any short falling that one might have made during the fasting of Ramzan. With such religious importance of the Shawwal month, performing Umrah in Shawwal is a pious thought.
Shawwal Fasting
Fasting is an indispensable part of Islamic culture. It helps people detach from the world and focus on devoting themselves to Allah. Though fasting in itself is highly rewarding, fasting during Shawwal offers great benefits. It is believed that fasting after Eid ul-Fitr is equal to fasting throughout the year. Shia Muslims fast six days after Eid, while Sunni Muslims conduct three days of fasting post Eid.
According to a hadith in Sahih Muslims, Prophet Muhammad said:
“Whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan and then follows it with six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for the entire year.”
Benefits of fasting 6 days of Shawwal:
- Rewards of Shawwal fasting 6 days consecutively equates to rewards of fasting throughout the year.
- It covers up and compensates for the deficiency left in Ramadan fast.
- Fasting after Ramadan acts as a sign that Allah has accepted Ramadan fasts and granted an individual the strength to do good deeds of fasting again in Shawwal.
- Shawwal fasting helps an individual seek further guidance from Allah and lead a pious life after Ramadan away from sins.
Fasting in Shawwal Hadith
As per a Hadith explained by the companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, “Whoever fasts in the month of Ramzan and then follows it with six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal, it will be as if he had fasted throughout the year.”
According to another Hadith, “Performing Umrah during Ramadan is equal to hajj.”
That explains why numerous Muslims tend to opt for Umrah in Shawwal. It is essential to note that there is no difference in the ritual itself, irrespective of the timeline. However, rituals will slightly differ for Umrah Mufradah and Umrah Tamattu.
According to the words of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Umrah is a desirable act or a Sunnah for the Muslims. Although there is no specific time to perform Umrah, there is a difference between performing it in the month of Shawwal and the rest of the year.
Umrah in Shawwal
Shawwal is the blessed month in which Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated. Since it is a holy month, performing Umrah in Shawwal is absolutely in compliance with the Islamic Laws. It is vital to note that there are two distinct types of Umrah. One is Umrah al-Tamattu and the other is Umrah al-Mufradah.
Umrah al-Mufradah can be performed by Muslims anytime during the year. However, it must not be done during the time of Hajj. Umrah al-Tamattu is mainly performed along with Hajj. That is why this Umrah is performed in the months of Hajj. These include Dhu al-Hijjah, Dhu al-Qadah, and Shawwal.
It is important to remember that if one opts for Umrah in Shawwal it is in association with Hajj, thereby translating it to the Hajj of Tamattu. Likewise, Umrah that is successfully completed before Shawwal cannot be accepted as the Umrah of Tamattu.
However, there are several conditions one must fulfill to perform Umrah in Shawwal. The most basic of these is that one must be an adult Muslim, who has the physical and the financial capacity to embark on the journey. Women need to have a Mahram or male relative to fulfill the Umrah.
Shawwal Month FAQs
What are the advantages of observing fasting in Shawwal?
One of the most crucial advantages of fasting six days of Shawwal is that it compensates for any deficiency in mandatory Ramadan fasts, as no one is without flaws or sins.
What does it mean to fast during Shawaal?
Shawwal is the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, and Eid ul-Fitr marks the beginning of the Holy Month of Shawwal, which is rejoiced by Muslims. After three days of Eid ul-Fitr, a believer must fast for six days of Shawaal to show that they are humble and grateful to Allah SWT for all the bounties received during the festival.
When should I start fasting during Shawwal?
Because fasting on the day of Eid is haram, one might begin fasting from the second day of Shawwal. Alternatively, it can be done in any order during the month of Shawwal, depending on how convenient it is for the individual.
What makes Shawwal unique?
The ceremony is seen as reward from Allah for completing Ramzan successfully. Fasting for six days during the holy month of Shawwal is highly beneficial to Muslims. It also compensates for any shortfalls that may have occurred during Ramzan fasting.
Who is excused from fasting during Shawaal?
Exemptions apply to children under the age of puberty, the elderly, people who are physically or psychologically unable to fast, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and travellers. From sunrise to sundown, fasting means abstaining from all food and drink, including water and chewing gum.
When does Shawwal end in the year 2022?
Shawwal in 2022 will end on 30th May.
Which month comes after Shawwal?
Dhu al-Qadah, the 11th month in Islamic Calendar, succeeds Shawwal.
How many days are there in Shawwal?
There are 29 or 30 days in Shawwal. The days in the month keep changing from 29 to 30 and vice versa in consecutive years.
Is it allowed to have nikah in the month of Shawwal?
In contrast to the Arab beliefs, it is okay to get married in this month. The two months when Muslims avoid wedding are Muharram and Ramadan
Fasting six days of Shawwal from second day of Shawwal month has lots of Blessings and immense reward. These six days fastings are Sunnah, not wajib.
The person who fasts these six days will rewarded with the rewards of fastings for 1000 fast. Fire will be haram for this person and his ammal (judgement day report) will be filled with immense rewards.
Its not compulsory that a person has to keep the six fasts continuously. He can keep it as per his convenience but it must be done in the same month of Shawwal.
Namaz (Salat and Dua) in Shawwal Month
1) 4 Rakats (2 Salams)
In the first night (After Isha Namaz) of Shawwal month, Pray 4 Rakats with 2 Salams.
In every Rakat, read Sureh Fatiha once and Sureh Iqlas 21 times.
Rewards: Allah will open doors of Janah (Heaven)for this person and close the doors of Jahanam (Hell)
2) 4 Rakats (2 Salams)
In the first night (After Isha Namaz) of Shawwal month, Pray 4 Rakats with 2 Salams.
In every Rakat, read Sureh Fatiha once and Sureh Iqlas, Sureh Falaq and Sureh Naas 3 times.
After Salam Read 3rd Third Kalma (Tamjeed) 70 times given below and repent for his sins in dua
Subhanallahi Wal Hamdulillahi Wa Laa ilaha illal Laho Wallahooakbar. Wala Haola Wala Quwwata illa billahil AliYil Azeem.
Rewards: Allah will forgive his sins and his repentance will be accepted. Insha Allah
3) 8 Rakats (4 Salams) | Namaz on Eid Ul Fitr
On the first day of Shawwal (Day of Eid) after Zuhr Namaz in Afternoon Pray 8 Rakats with 4 salam. In Each Rakat, Read Sureh Fatiha once and Sureh Iqla 25 times.
After Salam Read Subhan Allah 70 Times, Astagfirullah 70 times and below Darood sharif 70 times
Allahumma salli-ala muhammadin nabiyil ummiyi wa-ala alaihi wa ashabihi wa barik wa sallam
Rewards: Allah will grants 70 wishes in this world and 70 wishes on the judgement day and the doors of Rehmat will be opened for him. Insha Allah
Hadiths on Shawwal Fasting (Roza)
1) Sayyiduna Ayyub (Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said,
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days from Shawwal it is as if they fasted the entire year.” [Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, and Ibn Majah; Ahmad transmitted it from Jabir, Muntaqa]
2) Sayyiduna Thawban (Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said,
“Whoever fasts Ramadan, and then six days after Eid, it is an entire year. Whoever does a good deed shall have ten times its reward.” [Ibn Majah, Muntaqa]
