اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.
Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This is the specific supplication the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to recite upon entering the mosque. Imagine standing at the threshold of Allah's house. You're about to step into a place of immense peace, connection, and divine presence. Before your foot crosses the threshold, this dua is your key to unlocking the boundless mercy Allah has prepared for those who seek it within His house of worship.
How to Read
Upon approaching the Masjid, one should first recite the dua for entering any good place, which is 'Bismillah' (In the name of Allah). Then, upon stepping inside with the right foot, recite this specific dua: 'Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik'. The focus should be on genuine sincerity and a heartfelt desire for Allah's mercy.
Virtues & Benefits
This simple yet profound dua invites Allah's mercy into our lives, especially when we are in the most beloved place to Him on Earth – the mosque. By seeking His mercy, we are asking for forgiveness, guidance, ease in our affairs, and acceptance of our prayers. When we make our intention to gain these blessings not just for ourselves but by extension, for our families, we are embodying the spirit of 'seeking the best of both worlds' – spiritual fulfillment in this life and the hereafter, with our loved ones included in those blessings.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'When one of you enters the Masjid, he should say: Bismillah, and say: 'Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik'. And when he leaves, he should say: Bismillah, and say: 'Allahumma-inni as'aluka min fadlik.' (O Allah, I ask You from Your bounty.)' — Sahih Muslim 713