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, the House of Allah. It's a moment of transition from the outside world to a sacred space dedicated to worship and seeking Allah's pleasure. As you step across the threshold, you are entering a place of immense mercy and opportunity for spiritual growth. This dua sets the intention for seeking that divine mercy within the Masjid's walls.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity as you place your right foot inside the Masjid. It's recommended to enter with your right foot and exit with your left foot, mirroring the etiquette for entering and exiting the home and other places of worship. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's mercy as you enter this blessed environment.
Virtues & Benefits
The Masjid is a sanctuary. By reciting this dua upon entering, you are actively seeking Allah's abundant mercy. This moment signifies a renewed commitment to your faith and a turning towards spiritual betterment. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that Allah descends with His mercy upon those who gather in the mosques, making it a prime location to ask for His favors. Entering with this intention can also help you focus your mind and heart on the worship and remembrance of Allah during your time there, aiding you in fulfilling any oaths or commitments you may have made to Him concerning your worship.
Source & Authentication
عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ قَالَ " إِذَا دَخَلَ أَحَدُكُمُ الْمَسْجِدَ فَلْيُسَلِّمْ عَلَى النَّبِيِّ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ وَلْيَقُلِ اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ فَضْلِكَ. وَإِذَا خَرَجَ فَلْيُسَلِّمْ عَلَيْهِ وَلْيَقُلِ اللَّهُمَّ اعْصِمْنِي مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ ”. Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "When one of you enters the Masjid, he should send salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ and say: 'O Allah, open for me the doors of Your grace.' And when he leaves, he should send salutations upon him and say: 'O Allah, protect me from Satan.'"