اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.
Allahumma iftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This dua is recited upon entering the Masjid, just as you would recite a dua upon entering your home, signifying the sacredness and comfort we should find in the House of Allah. It's the very first supplication to make as you step across the threshold, initiating your spiritual engagement with the place of worship.
How to Read
Upon reaching the entrance of the Masjid, pause for a moment. With sincerity and intention, recite this dua. It is recommended to enter with the right foot first, just as we enter our homes, and to carry the feeling of seeking Allah's vast mercy into your prayer space. Imagine yourself stepping into a place where divine grace is readily available.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua carries immense spiritual weight. By asking Allah to open the doors of His mercy upon entering His House, you are setting a profound intention for your time there. It's an acknowledgment that the Masjid is not just a building, but a gateway to divine blessings, solace, and closeness to the Creator. This habit cultivates a deep connection, transforming the Masjid from a mere place to visit into a sanctuary you yearn for – a true second home for your soul. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that the angels supplicate for those who remain in the Masjid after prayer, praying for them and making dua for their forgiveness (Sahih al-Bukhari 660, Sahih Muslim 277). This dua for entry is a way to invite that same divine favor from the outset.
Source & Authentication
The Hadith describing the Prophet's ﷺ practice is narrated by Abu Humayd As-Sa'idi: 'When the Prophet ﷺ stood up to pray, he would say: 'Subhana-kal-lahumma wa bihamdika, wa tabara-kasmuka, wa ta'ala jadduka, wa la ilaha ghayruk.' (Glory be to You, O Allah, and I praise You; blessed be Your name, and exalted be Your majesty; there is no god but You). And when he broke his fast, he would say: 'Dhahaba-dh-dhama'u, wabtallat-il-'uruqu, wa thabata-l-ajru in sha'a Allah.' (Thirst is gone, the veins are quenched and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills). And when he finished his ablution, he would say: 'Subhanaka-llahumma wa bihamdika, ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Anta, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilaika.' (Glory be to You, O Allah, and I praise You; I bear witness that there is no god but You; I seek Your forgiveness and I turn to You in repentance). The specific dua for entering the Masjid is also authentically reported. For example, when entering, the Prophet ﷺ would say: 'Allahumma aftah li abwaba rahmatik' (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy) and when leaving, he would say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka min fadlik' (O Allah, I ask You from Your grace). (Sahih Muslim 714 and others).