Can We Combine the 6 Days of Shawwal with Missed Ramadan Fasts?

Assalamualaikum warahmatullah wabarakatuh. If you are considering fasts during the month of Shawwal to make up for missed fasts in Ramadan, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

It is indeed permissible to combine the 6 fasts of Shawwal with the missed fasts of Ramadan. However, it is crucial to have the correct intention for each fast. The night before or during your sahur, you should make the intention for the particular fast you are observing. This will ensure that your intentions are clear and proper.

Understanding the Priority of Fasts

It is important to understand the difference between Fardh and Nafl fasts. Fardh fasts (compulsory fasts) such as those missed during Ramadan, are considered mandatory. If you do not make these up, you will face an obligation and potential punishment. On the other hand, the six fasts of Shawwal are Nafl (non-obligatory) fasts, meaning there is no sin if you do not observe them. However, they are still encouraged as Sunnah.

A general rule in Islam is that the Fardh should be given priority over the Nafl until the Fardh is fulfilled. Therefore, it is best to prioritize the missed Ramadan fasts first before engaging in additional Nafl fasts. This approach ensures that you fulfill your religious obligation and does not delay the fulfillment of your mandatory fasts.

Differences of Opinion

There is a difference of opinion regarding the combination of fasts. According to some scholars, it is recommended to make up the missed fasts in Ramadan first, as these are Fardh and are given priority. However, it is important to note that the Fardh fasts cannot be combined with other fasts. They must be completed separately from any additional Sunnah fasts.

The Iftaa Department suggests that if you are making up the missed fasts in Ramadan, you should do so before engaging in the Sunnah fasts of Shawwal. This ensures that you fulfill your immediate obligations without causing delay or confusion in your religious practices.

Conclusion

Assalamu alykum wa rahmatu Allahi wa barakatuh. In summary, it is indeed possible to combine the 6 fasts of Shawwal with the missed fasts of Ramadan, provided that your intentions are clear and that you prioritize the Fardh fasts. However, it is wise to first fulfill the missed Ramadan fasts and then consider additional Nafl fasts for Shawwal, such as the 6 post-Ramadan fasts. May Allah accept your efforts and bless you with His mercy and grace. Ameen.

Assalamu alykum wa rahmatu Allahi wa barakatuh