After Ramadan ends, many Muslims wonder whether they should prioritize making up missed fasts or observing the six recommended days of Shawwal, known for their great spiritual reward.

Scholars emphasize that making up missed Ramadan fasts is an obligation that must be fulfilled, based on clear religious guidance requiring compensation for missed days.

On the other hand, fasting six days in Shawwal is a voluntary act with immense reward, as it is considered equivalent to fasting for an entire year.

The key question—can the six days be observed before making up missed Ramadan fasts?—depends on the situation:

First case:
If there is enough time during Shawwal, it is better to complete the missed Ramadan fasts first, then observe the six days, since obligatory acts take priority over voluntary ones.

Second case (exception):
If time is limited and only a few days remain in Shawwal, making it impossible to combine both, it becomes permissible to fast the six days first, then complete the missed Ramadan fasts later, as their timeframe extends throughout the year.

Additionally, it is not required to fast the six days immediately after Eid; they can be observed at any time during Shawwal, consecutively or separately.

Balancing obligations and voluntary acts remains key, ensuring that neither is neglected while making the most of available time.

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