اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the doors of Your Mercy.
Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This beautiful dua is recited upon entering the Masjid, ideally with the right foot first. It's a moment to transition from the outside world to a sanctuary of peace and connection with Allah. When you feel overwhelmed by stress, the act of entering the Masjid with this intention can be a powerful step towards finding solace.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely as you place your right foot into the Masjid. Focus on the meaning – you are asking Allah to grant you access to His vast Mercy, which is the ultimate cure for all worldly anxieties and stresses. Visualize those doors of mercy opening to embrace you.
Virtues & Benefits
Entering the Masjid is an act of worship in itself. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, 'Whoever goes to the Masjid in the morning or evening, Allah prepares for him a lodging in Paradise for every morning or evening he goes there' (Sahih al-Bukhari 662). This specific dua focuses on seeking Allah's Mercy, which encompasses all forms of relief and well-being. By asking for its doors to be opened, you are invoking Allah's compassion to alleviate your stress and grant you tranquility within His house.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'When one of you enters the Masjid, let him send forth the right foot and pronounce the Basmalah (In the name of Allah), and when he goes out, let him send forth the left foot and pronounce the Basmalah.' (Sunan Abu Dawood 466. While this hadith describes the general etiquette, the dua 'Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik' is specifically taught for entering the Masjid, as narrated in Sahih Muslim 713, in the context of supplicating upon entering the Masjid.)