‘Fasting in Shawwal holds great spiritual significance in Islam’ – Sheikh Ibrahim Kalil

The fasting of six days in the month of Shawwal, following the completion of Ramadan, holds great spiritual significance in Islam.

It is a practice that has been endorsed by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said, “Whoever fasts Ramadan and fasts six days in the month of Shawwal, it is as though they have fasted for the entire year.”

This practice, while not obligatory, remains a Sunnah that has been followed by the companions of the Prophet and continues to be observed by Muslims around the world.

In an exclusive interview with SolaceBase, Chairman, Kano State Council of Ulama, Sheikh Ibrahim Kalil elaborated on the immense spiritual benefits of Shawwal fasting.

He explained that Allah multiplies the reward of good deeds tenfold, meaning that the combined reward of fasting Ramadan and the six days of Shawwal equals the reward of fasting for an entire year.

“Fasting is one of the ways to imitate the Prophet, seek Allah’s forgiveness, and serve as a complement to the fasting done in Ramadan,” Sheikh Ibrahim emphasized.

He added that while Shawwal fasting is not compulsory, those who engage in it will receive immense spiritual rewards, as it serves as a means of spiritual cleansing and an opportunity to increase one’s devotion.

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Sheikh Ibrahim also shared guidance on practical matters relating to Shawwal fasting, including advice for those who may have missed fasting during Ramadan.

He encouraged Muslims to make up for missed Ramadan fasts first but emphasized that it is important to take advantage of the one-month window for Shawwal fasting, as it cannot be completed at another time.

He also reassured those unable to fast due to illness or other reasons that their reward will still be counted for the days they were able to fast.