اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.
Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This dua is recited upon entering the Masjid. It's particularly relevant when one is seeking Allah's help to fulfill a vow they have made, as the Masjid is a place of worship and seeking divine assistance. The general dua for entering the masjid is excellent for all times, and the intention to fulfill a vow can be held in the heart as you recite it.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity upon stepping across the threshold of the mosque. It is recommended to enter with the right foot first, just as one would for entering any place of honor or blessing. Face the Qiblah briefly if possible, and make your intention clear to Allah (SWT) that you are seeking His help to keep your promise.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this beautiful supplication for entering the mosque. It's a general supplication for entering any mosque, asking Allah for His mercy. The act of entering the mosque itself is a blessed act, and seeking Allah's help to fulfill a vow is a sign of strong faith. When we make a vow to Allah, we are essentially promising to do something for His sake, and His mercy is what will enable us to complete it. This dua, therefore, encapsulates seeking that divine enabling power within His house of worship.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: ‘When one of you enters the mosque, let him say: ‘Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik’ (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy). And when he leaves, let him say: ‘Allahumma-ftah li abwaba fadlik’ (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your grace).’