Reward for fasting six days of Shawwal after Ramadan - Yasir Qadhi | 17th August 2012

Rulings regarding the six fasts of Shawwal:

1. It is highly recommended to fast these 6 days, but it is not obligatory.

2. The fasting of Ramadan must be completed before the 6 fasts of Shawwal. There is a difference of opinion on this issue, however to complete Ramadan first is stronger as the Prophet (sallalahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six of Shawwal..." Thus showing Ramadan must first be complete. Allah knows best.

3. The 6 fasts don't have to be kept in succession but can be spread out.

4. If a person starts the fasts and is unable to complete all 6, there is no sin.

5. The 6 fasts of Shawwal cannot be delayed to another month.

6. You can start the fasts at any time in Shawwal and it doesn't have to be straight after Eid.