اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the gates of Your mercy.
Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This dua is recited upon entering the Masjid. While its primary form is a general supplication for Allah's mercy, we can connect it to the intention of seeking strength to uphold justice. When we enter the House of Allah, we enter with the aim of pleasing Him, which includes striving for justice in our lives. Therefore, as you step across the threshold of the Masjid, make the intention to seek Allah's help in remaining steadfast on the path of truth and fairness, reflecting the 'gates of Your mercy' that you are asking to be opened.
How to Read
Recite this dua as you are about to enter or just as you are stepping into the Masjid. It is recommended to enter with the right foot first, just as we typically do when entering our homes or any place of honour. Focus your heart on the meaning, asking Allah to grant you access to His vast mercy, which encompasses guidance and the ability to do good.
Virtues & Benefits
This beautiful dua, as narrated by Muslim, is the general supplication taught to us by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for entering the Masjid. It is a request for Allah's boundless mercy, which is the source of all blessings, guidance, and the ability to perform righteous deeds. By seeking Allah's mercy upon entering His house, we are inherently asking for His help to live a life that is pleasing to Him, which includes upholding justice. Mercy and justice are intrinsically linked; true mercy often necessitates seeking and establishing justice. This dua, therefore, sets a spiritual tone for our time in the Masjid, preparing us to be better individuals who embody Allah's qualities in our interactions outside these blessed walls.
Source & Authentication
Abu Usayd Malik ibn Rabi'ah as-Sa'idi reported that Allah's Messenger ﷺ said: 'When one of you enters the Masjid, he should say: "Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik" (O Allah, open for me the gates of Your mercy). And when he goes out, he should say: "Allahumma inni as'aluka min fadlik" (O Allah, I ask of You from Your bounty)." — Sahih Muslim 713