Shawwal: The Tenth Islamic Month
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Shawwal (شوال) is the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Its name is derived from the Arabic root meaning 'to lift' or 'to carry,' possibly referring to the time when camels would become pregnant. Shawwal begins with Eid al-Fitr, one of the two major Islamic celebrations.
Eid al-Fitr
The first day of Shawwal is Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast. It is haram to fast on this day. The Eid prayer is performed in the morning, followed by celebrations, visiting family, and giving gifts. The Prophet commanded paying zakat al-fitr before the Eid prayer.
Six Days of Fasting
The Prophet said: 'Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted the entire year' (Sahih Muslim 1164). This is because the reward for Ramadan is multiplied tenfold (equivalent to 300 days), and six additional days multiplied tenfold equal 60 days, totaling 360 days. The majority of scholars consider these fasts highly recommended. They may be fasted consecutively or spread throughout the month.