As Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan, Islamic clerics urge the faithful to observe the six days of fasting in Shawwal, known as Sittu Shawwal.
In a phone interview in Abuja, prominent cleric Sheikh Khamis Na Sidi stressed the spiritual value of the fast. He described it as a way to continue the devotion built during Ramadan.
He cited a Hadith of Prophet Muhammad, saying anyone who fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days in Shawwal receives the reward of a full year.
Scholars explain this using the principle that good deeds earn tenfold rewards. Thirty days of Ramadan equal 300 days, while six days of Shawwal equal 60 days, making 360 days in total.
Clerics say Muslims can fast the six days at any time during Shawwal. They can fast immediately after Eid, later in the month, or spread the days out. The fasts can also be done consecutively or separately.
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Scholars hold different views on missed fasts during Ramadan. Some advise completing missed days first. Others say observing Shawwal fasts before or after does not reduce the reward.
Sheikh Khamis urged Muslims to fast with sincerity. He encouraged them to seek Allah’s forgiveness and pray for peace, unity, and progress.
Clerics say Sittu Shawwal helps Muslims maintain discipline and stay spiritually connected after Ramadan.
