Shawwal is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar that comes after the holy month of Ramadan.The sighting of the new moon of Shawwal signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan, and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr and its festivities. A month we begin by celebrating Eid Al-Fitr, a day filled with happiness and festivities. As it’s the first day of Shawwal we connect with family and friends on Eid al-Fitr. When we pray together, exchange greetings and gifts, and thank Allah (SWT) for allowing us to participate in and enjoy another blessed Ramadan. On this holy day, people thank Allah for giving them the stamina to observe a one-month fast and refrain from engaging in vices. The Eid ul-Fitr festival span anywhere from one to three days, depending on the country. Zakat al-Fitr, or the Zakat of Breaking the Fast of Ramadan, is the special obligatory alms paid by all Muslims at the end of the Ramadan fasting month. It is also called Sadaqat al-Fitr, “the Charity of Breaking the Fast” of Ramadan, and Zakat al-Fitrah, the Alms of Human Nature, or the Human Creation, because it is a mandatory charity due on every Muslim at the end of Ramadan, regardless of age or gender. This obligatory payment is termed fitrah, derived from the Arabic term fitr, a word which signifies the “nature” upon which God created the human being, related also to the Arabic word for “fast-breaking” (iftar), eating after a period of abstention from this “natural” and defining human activity. Zakat al-Fitr comes into existence as an obligatory alms in Sha‘ban, the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, in 2H, or the second year of the Hijrah. The obligation to pay the alms of Zakat al-Fitr at Ramadan’s end coincides with God’s revealed commandment in 2H for Muslims to memorialize the beginning of the Quran’s revelation to the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W), on him be peace, 15 years before. It was revealed in the month of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar year, by reestablishing a primordial worship form, fasting (from dawn to sunset), for the entire month whenever its new crescent appears. O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those who have believed before you, so you may be ever God-fearing.It is for a specified number of days. … It was the month of Ramadan in which the Quran was first sent down as guidance for all people, having in it clear proofs of divine guidance and the criterion for right and wrong. So whoever among you bears witness to the month shall then fast it. (Surat al-Baqarah, 2:183-85) Zakat al-Fitr differs from other kinds of alms or charity in that it is imposed on the individual Muslim and not on his or her measures of wealth or earnings. The Prophet, on him be peace, specifically called the Ramadan Fast-Breaking Alms “Zakat,” and the Quran says: And duly establish the Salah-Prayer and give the Zakat-Charity. (Surat al-Baqarah, 2:110 and Surat al-Nisa’, 4:77) The vast majority of scholars recognize this wording as enjoining an “obligatory” alms levy. Similar prophetic reports use other language that directly “commanded” every Muslim to give a required alms payment at the conclusion of Ramadan. Zakat al-Fitr has two primary purposes, one spiritual for the individual worshiper and the other communal. As a worship form, fasting constitutes, if you will, a “spiritual technology” that God has taught the human being. Its purpose is to help someone unfetter his or her soul for an interim from the worldly appetites that preoccupy it, to free its heavenly nature somewhat from its clay confines so that it may draw itself nearer in consciousness to God. This, as we’ve just seen, the Quran itself tells us: So that you may be ever God-fearing. Practically speaking, the Arabic word that “God-fearing” translates is the unique religious term taqwa, meaning, in its essence, to keep mindful of God so that one becomes habituated to doing what He commands and resolute in holding back from what He forbids. As such, the perfection of fasting, the worship rite, demands of one more than merely depriving his or her body of drink, food and passionate fulfillment. It aims to train the human spirit to master the physical nature that frames it. In Islam, the month of Shawwal is significant for several reasons. Shawwal is also a month when many of us feel sad that Ramadan has passed. As we miss the opportunities for rewards and heightened spirituality we had during the month. However, there are also many ways to gain more Ramadan-like feelings and rewards in Shawwal. This month is also renowned for the six days of Shawwal. These are six voluntary fasts one can complete at any time throughout the month of Shawwal (except on Eid al-Fitr) and doing so holds immense rewards. Holy Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) said:“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime “Muslim. Doing these six fasts is recommended as a means of redeeming any shortcomings in the quality of our fasts in the month of Ramadan. What’s more, they are equivalent to a year of fasting if accepted by Allah (SWT). Scholars have also considered one’s intention to fast the six days of Shawwal as a sign that their observation of Ramadan has been accepted.In fact, Ibn Rajab (RA) said that doing these fasts would be a way of demonstrating our gratitude to Allah (SWT). For the blessings, mercy, and reward that Ramadan has to offer. Holy Qur’an 2:185 says, “[Allah wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful”As such, Shawwal marks a precious time to reflect on and continue the good habits we gained in the preceding month: the blessed month of Ramadan. An important month to centre the mind, body and soul for the remainder of the year and beyond. We know the first day of Shawwal is celebrated as Eid Al-Fitr, one of the celebrations recognised in Islam. The other is Eid al-Adha, observed on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic Calendar.Shawwal is also the first of three months (before the month of Dhul Hijjah) in which some of the acts of Hajj can begin to be performed, such as the Tawaf of Arrival. The period of Hajj also begins in Shawwal, which is otherwise called Ash-hur Al-Hajj or the months of Hajj. It is important to remember that the six voluntary fasts of Shawwal can take place at any time throughout the month. However, one cannot fast on the first day of the month, as it is forbidden to fast on Eid al-Fitr.
“Shawwal is a significant month in Islam, offering opportunities for spiritual growth, forgiveness, and increased rewards for good deeds. In Islam, the purpose of life is to worship Allah and to live according to His teachings, striving for a righteous life and seeking His pleasure, both in this world and the hereafter.”
“The Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) forbade fasting on the day of Eid -Al-Fitr and al-Nahr”Sahih Bukhari. Every Muslim want the blessings of Ramadan continue. With our spirituality renewed, we all want to keep hold of that feeling at the end of Ramadan – that closeness to Allah (SWT). SubhanAllah, the deeds most loved by Allah are those done regularly – even if they are small. The Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) said, “The most beloved deed to Allah is the most regular and constant even if it were little”Sahih Bukhari. The Battle of Uhud, fought on March 19, 625 CE (3 Shawwal, 3 AH), holds great significance in Islamic history and has several important lessons for Muslims. The Battle of Uhud was sparked by the Quraysh tribe’s desire for revenge against the Muslims for their defeat at the Battle of Badr. The Quraysh, led by Abu Sufyan, marched towards Medina with a large army, intending to crush the Muslim community. The Muslim army, led by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), marched out to meet the Quraysh army. Despite being outnumbered, the Muslims initially gained the upper hand, but a tactical mistake led to a Muslim defeat. The Muslims were defeated, but they did not stop fighting for Islam. The Muslims gleaned many useful lessons from the Battle of Uhud for use in subsequent battles. Mecca won the Battle of Uhud. They had to deal with many casualties but were able to defeat the Muslims. The Battle of Uhud served as a test of faith for the Muslim community, demonstrating their ability to withstand hardship and adversity. The battle highlighted the importance of discipline, obedience, and unity among the Muslim ranks. Prophet Muhammad’s uncle, Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib (R.A), was martyred during the Battle of Uhud in 625 CE. He was a respected companion of the Prophet and a skilled warrior. Hamza (R.A) was martyred by Wahshi ibn Harb, a slave of the Quraysh tribe, who speared him in the abdomen and then beheaded him. Hamza’s death was a significant blow to the Muslim army and the Prophet Muhammad, who was deeply grieved by his loss. The Prophet later praised Hamza as the “Lion of Allah” and the “Lion of the Messenger of Allah”. The Battle led to the revelation of several Quranic verses, including Surah Al-Imran, verses 121-180, which discuss the battle and its aftermath. The Battle of Uhud had a significant impact on Islamic history: (a) Strengthening of Muslim Unity: Despite the defeat, the Battle of Uhud strengthened Muslim unity and resolve. (b) Development of Islamic Warfare: The battle marked an important development in Islamic warfare, with the introduction of new tactics and strategies. (c ) Preparation for Future Battles: The Battle of Uhud served as a precursor to future battles, including the Battle of the Trench and the Conquest of Mecca. It is believed that marriage of Aisha (R.A) with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) took place in the month of Shawwal. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) married Aisha (R.A), the daughter of Abu Bakr (R.A), when she was around 6 years old and the marriage was consummated when she was 9, according to traditional Islamic sources, specifically Sahih al-Bukhari. Aisha (R.A) was betrothed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at the age of six or seven, but she remained in her parents’ home until the age of nine, or ten according to Ibn Hisham, when the marriage was consummated in Medina. The marriage was consummated in the month of Shawwal after the Prophet’s migration (hijrah) to Medina, which was in April of 623. Some scholars calculate that Aisha was closer to 15 or 19 years old, while others say that she was 6 when she got married and 9 when she moved into the Prophet’s home. It’s worth noting that Aisha’s age at marriage has been a subject of controversy and debate, with some critics arguing that it was too young. However, it’s essential to consider the historical context and cultural norms of 7th-century Arabia, where early marriage was not uncommon. Aisha (R.A) is considered one of the most important and influential figures in Islamic history, and her hadiths (sayings and actions of the Prophet) are highly valued. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had other wives, including Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (R.A), Sawda bint Zama (R.A), Hafsah bint Umar (R.A), Zaynab bint Khuzaymah (R.A), Hind bint Abi Umayya (known as Umm Salama) (R.A), Zaynab bint Jahsh (R.A), Maymuna bint al-Harith (R.A), and Juwayriyah bint al-Harith (R.A). Aisha’s marriage to Prophet Muhammad is a significant event in Islamic history. Aisha played a crucial role in Islamic history, not only as Muhammad’s wife but also as a scholar, politician, and military leader. She was known for her intelligence, courage, and strong will, and her contributions to Islamic knowledge and practice are still revered today. The marriage of Aisha (R.A) with Prophet Muhammad (R.A) is believed to have taken place when Aisha was six years old, and the marriage was consummated when she was nine years old. This is based on historical records and accounts from Aisha herself, as well as other sources. Overall, Shawwal is a significant month in Islam, offering opportunities for spiritual growth, forgiveness, and increased rewards for good deeds. In Islam, the purpose of life is to worship Allah and to live according to His teachings, striving for a righteous life and seeking His pleasure, both in this world and the hereafter. The Quran states, “I have not created jinn and mankind but to worship Me” (Quran 51:56). This means the primary purpose of human existence is to recognize and acknowledge Allah as the one true God and to submit to His will. Muslims are expected to live according to the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah (Prophet Muhammad’s traditions). This includes adhering to the Five Pillars of Islam (Shahada, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj). Islam emphasizes living a life of moral uprightness, justice, and compassion. Muslims are encouraged to purify their souls, reform their lives, and establish the supremacy of right over wrong. Earthly life is seen as a test and preparation for the afterlife, where individuals will be judged based on their deeds and beliefs. Muslims are encouraged to focus on pleasing Allah and earning His reward in the Hereafter. Islam also emphasizes the importance of serving others and contributing to the well-being of society. Muslims are encouraged to be kind, helpful, and just in their dealings with others.
(The authors write regularly on Islamic topics exclusively for the opinion pages of “Kashmir Horizon”. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Dr. Bilal Ahmad & Intizar Ahmad
