Reap the Rewards All Year Round: How Shawwal Fast completes Your Ramadan

Have you ever finished a challenging task and felt energized to keep going? This positive momentum can also apply to your spiritual journey! This article explores how optional fasts in Sha’ban can complete your Ramadan and potentially earn you the reward of year-long fasting, all while highlighting the deeper meaning behind these practices.

reward of fasting throughout the year

Thawban reported that the Prophet (saw) said: “The fast of Ramadan is like observing 10 months of fasting. Fasting six days of Shawwal is like observing two months of fasting. This together is like fasting throughout the year.”

Sha’ban and Shawwal fasts are like the Sunnah prayers

The voluntary fasts in Sha’ban and Shawwal are seen as complementary acts of worship to the obligatory Ramadan fast, much like the Sunnah prayers are to the five daily prayers.

Just as Sunnah prayers enhance the reward for performing the mandatory prayers, these additional fasts offer an opportunity to gain extra reward and potentially make up for any shortcomings in how we observed Ramadan.

 Feeling the Flow? It Could Be a Sign of Acceptance

Imagine this: you put effort into a good deed, and then you find yourself drawn to do even more good. This increasing desire to worship could be a sign that Allah (SWT) has accepted your initial act! There's a saying that captures this beautifully: "The reward of virtue is further virtue!" This means doing good deeds is like planting seeds - the more you plant, the more likely you are to see a bountiful harvest of blessings.

Fasting the six days of Shawwal following Ramadan exemplifies this concept perfectly.  By giving us the inclination to continue worshipping after a demanding month, Allah (SWT) is showing His support for our efforts and encouraging us to stay on the path of righteousness. Remember, the most beloved deeds to Allah (SWT) are those done consistently, even if they seem small. So, keep up the good work, and trust that Allah (SWT) sees and appreciates your dedication.

conclusion

Just like positive momentum keeps you going after a challenging task, your spiritual journey can benefit too!  This concept of "bonus good deeds" is beautifully reflected in the optional Shawwal fasts.  These voluntary acts, like Sunnah prayers, complement your Ramadan and potentially grant the reward of a year-long fast. Remember, consistency is key – even small, continuous good deeds are cherished by Allah (SWT).  So keep striving on the path of righteousness, and may Allah (SWT) accept your efforts!