What is Shawwal? Meaning, Significance & Acts of Worship

What is Shawwal?

Shawwal is the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, following the blessed month of Ramadan. For Muslims, it is a time of continuation and an opportunity to keep the spiritual momentum from Ramadan alive.

Many people associate Shawwal with only Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. However, Shawwal holds much deeper significance, offering unique rewards and opportunities for worship.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged fasting in Shawwal and engaging in acts of worship that strengthen faith and maintain consistency after Ramadan.

When is Shawwal?

Because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the start of Shawwal varies every year based on the sighting of the new moon. In order to find out the exact dates for Shawwal each year, check with your local Islamic authority or moon sighting announcements.

Why is Fasting Encouraged in Shawwal?

In Islam, one of the greatest virtues of Shawwal is the opportunity to fast six days, which comes with an incredible reward.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

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

Benefits of Fasting in Shawwal:

Just like there are numerous advantages, both spiritual and physical, for fasting the month of Ramadan. Similarly, fasting in Shawwal also has a lot of benefits.

✅ Spiritual Renewal – Helps maintain the discipline and closeness to Allah developed in Ramadan.

✅ Increases Reward – Equivalent to fasting the entire year.

✅ Cleanses Minor Sins – Keeps you in a state of purification.

✅ Prepares for Voluntary Fasts – Helps build a habit of fasting beyond Ramadan, like Mondays and Thursdays or the white days (13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month).

Things to Do in Shawwal

There are a lot of things one can do in Shawwal in order to gain spiritual growth and rewards. Shawwal is more than just six days of fasting. It’s a month full of blessings and opportunities to maintain spiritual growth after Ramadan.

1. Observe the Six Fasts of Shawwal

The six fasts are flexible—you don’t have to fast them consecutively. You can space them out over the month according to your ability.

2. Continue Praying Tahajjud & Sunnah Prayers

Just because Ramadan has ended doesn’t mean we stop the extra prayers. Keep the habit alive by praying Tahajjud, Duha, and Sunnah prayers consistently.

“The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are few.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

3. Give Charity & Help Those in Need

The reward of giving continues beyond Ramadan. Shawwal is an excellent time to continue donating to those in need.

Allah says:

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears; in every ear, there are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies (the reward) for whom He wills.”
(Quran 2:261)

Even a small, consistent act of charity can bring immense rewards. You can donate and even automate your Zakat and charity through National Zakat Foundation here.

4. Strengthen Family & Community Ties

Ramadan brings families and communities together, but that unity shouldn’t end with Eid. Take time in Shawwal to:

Visit family and friends.

Strengthen relationships with loved ones.

Engage in community programs and Islamic events.

“He who desires that his sustenance be expanded and his age extended should maintain good relations with his kin.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

How to Stay Motivated After Ramadan

Many people experience a dip in motivation after Ramadan, struggling to keep up with their spiritual habits. Here are a few ways you can stay consistent:

✅ Make a Daily Worship Schedule – Even 10-15 minutes of Quran, Du’a, or Dhikr makes a difference.

✅ Find an Accountability Partner – A friend or family member who can encourage you.

✅ Set Small, Achievable Goals – Rather than big commitments, focus on consistent small acts.

✅ Make Sincere Du’a – Ask Allah for help in maintaining your spirituality beyond Ramadan.

“Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.”
(Quran 13:11)

The key is to keep going, even in small steps.

To summarize this all, Shawwal is a month full of blessings, offering us a chance to continue the good habits we built in Ramadan. By fasting in Shawwal, maintaining acts of worship, giving charity, and strengthening our faith, we can keep our connection with Allah strong throughout the year.

Use this month as a bridge between Ramadan and the rest of the year, ensuring that your spiritual growth after Ramadan continues with consistency and sincerity.

May Allah accept our efforts and grant us steadfastness in our faith. Ameen.