اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the gates of Your mercy.
Allahummaftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This dua is recited upon entering the Masjid (mosque). It signifies our intention to seek Allah's blessings and mercy as we step into a place of worship and reflection. The Masjid is a sanctuary, and beginning our time there with this supplication sets a beautiful tone for our spiritual engagement.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity as you place your right foot inside the Masjid. It's a simple yet profound invocation that prepares the heart and mind for worship. Imagine each word opening doors to Allah's boundless grace. Following this, it is the Sunnah to recite the dua for entering a place other than home, seeking Allah's blessings.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua upon entering the Masjid is a Sunnah practice. While this specific phrase focuses on seeking mercy, the general act of entering the Masjid with intention and supplication is a means of drawing closer to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that when a person goes to the Masjid, he is considered a guest of Allah, and it is befitting for a guest to be honored. This dua is a beautiful way to acknowledge that we are entering Allah's house seeking His favor and guidance.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'When one of you enters the Masjid, let him say: O Allah, open for me the gates of Your mercy.' (Sahih Muslim 713). Another related narration from Sunan Abi Dawud (465) mentions: 'When one of you enters the Masjid, he should send salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ and say: O Allah, open for me the gates of Your mercy.' However, the version without sending salutations on the Prophet ﷺ is the one found in Sahih Muslim.