Recitation of the Intention for Fasting in Shawwal and Its Procedures, Also Understand Its Meaning and Virtues

Kapanlagi.com - Fasting is one of the obligatory acts of worship in Islam, which is the third pillar. Among the obligatory fasts, there are also voluntary fasts. Observing voluntary fasts can also be a way to earn abundant rewards. Fasting Shawwal is one example of voluntary fasting. Therefore, it is essential for every Muslim to know the procedures and intention of fasting Shawwal.

As the name suggests, fasting Shawwal is performed in the month of Shawwal or after fasting in Ramadan and celebrating Eid al-Fitr. Like other fasting and acts of worship, fasting Shawwal also has many virtues. However, in order to obtain these virtues, a Muslim must have a sincere intention to fast Shawwal.

So, what is the recitation of the intention to fast Shawwal and what are its virtues? Summarized from various sources, here is the explanation.

1. Understanding Fasting in Shawwal

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Shawwal is considered a special month in Islam. Not only because it includes the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on the 1st and 2nd of Shawwal, but also because Muslims are encouraged to fast during this month. Fasting in Shawwal can be one of the voluntary fasts that Muslims can observe to earn abundant rewards.

Fasting in Shawwal is a voluntary act of worship. Therefore, it is not obligatory for every Muslim to observe it, but at the same time, it is highly recommended. In fact, the recommendation for fasting in Shawwal was directly expressed by the Prophet Muhammad, as stated in the following hadith:

"Whoever fasts during the month of Ramadan and then follows it with six days of fasting in Shawwal, it is as if they have fasted for the entire year." (Narrated by Muslim).

2. Procedures for Fasting in Shawwal

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The procedures for fasting in Shawwal are not significantly different from the observance of fasting in Ramadan and other voluntary fasts. Fasting in Shawwal involves refraining from eating, drinking, fulfilling desires, and anything that may invalidate the fast, starting from dawn until sunset.

The only difference between fasting in Shawwal and fasting in Ramadan lies in the intention and the timing.

3. Time of Fasting in Shawwal

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As mentioned earlier, besides the intention of fasting in Shawwal, what sets this fast apart from others is the timing. Shawwal fasting is performed for 6 days in the month of Shawwal (excluding the 1st and 2nd day of Shawwal, which is Eid al-Fitr). However, before starting the Shawwal fast, it is recommended to make up for any missed fasts from Ramadan first.

The Shawwal fast does not have to be performed consecutively. This means that it can be done at any time within the six days as long as it is still within the month of Shawwal. The rules regarding the timing of Shawwal fasting are explained in one of the hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad, which states:

"Fasting for six days in the month of Shawwal has been confirmed from the Prophet Muhammad. And it can be done consecutively or separately. Because the Prophet Muhammad mentioned Shawwal fasting in general terms and did not specify whether it should be done consecutively or separately. He said: 'Whoever fasts Ramadan followed by six days in the month of Shawwal, he will receive the reward of fasting for a whole year.'" (Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, Majmu' Fatawa wa Maqalah Mutanawwi'ah, 15/391).

4. Intention of Fasting Shawwal

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Intention is an important and fundamental aspect of worship. Intention can determine whether a worship or good deed is accepted or not. The same goes for the intention of fasting Shawwal. Although many people argue that intention can be done in the heart, reciting the intention verbally can be a way to strengthen the heart.

As explained earlier, the intention for fasting Shawwal is clearly different from the intention for fasting Ramadan or other fasts. The intention for fasting Shawwal can be recited at night (before fasting) or in the morning or at dawn (as long as one has not eaten or drunk).

1) Here is the recitation of the intention for fasting Shawwal to be recited at night:

Nawaitu shauma ghadin 'an adaa'i sunnatis Syawwaali lillaahi ta'aalaa.

Meaning:

"I intend to fast the sunnah of Shawwal tomorrow for the sake of Allah SWT."

2) Here is the recitation of the intention for fasting Shawwal to be recited in the morning:

Nawaitu shauma haadzal yaumi 'an adaa'i sunnatis Syawwaali lillaahi ta'aalaa.

Meaning:

"I intend to fast the sunnah of Shawwal today for the sake of Allah SWT."

5. The Virtues of Shawwal Fasting

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Fasting in Shawwal is a highly recommended sunnah practice by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Therefore, of course, this voluntary fasting has many special virtues and merits. In addition to being considered as fasting for a whole year, here are the virtues of fasting in Shawwal that every Muslim needs to know.

1) Perfecting the deeds in the month of Ramadan.

2) Signifying the acceptance of fasting in Ramadan.

3) Obtaining multiplied rewards.

4) Increasing the faith of a Muslim.

5) Receiving help or intercession from the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Those are some of the recitations of the intention of fasting in Shawwal along with its procedures and virtues. Hopefully, it will be beneficial and increase our faith as Muslims. Amen.

(kpl/psp)