اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.
Allahumma iftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This dua is recited upon entering the Masjid, just as you would recite the dua for entering any home, but with a specific intention towards seeking Allah's mercy within His House. It’s a beautiful way to begin your worship, acknowledging that the Masjid is a place where Allah's boundless mercy is accessible.
How to Read
As you approach the Masjid, prepare yourself mentally and physically. Recite Bismillah (In the name of Allah) and then step into the Masjid, typically with your right foot. While stepping in, recite the above dua with a humble and sincere heart, focusing on the intention of seeking Allah's pleasure and mercy.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication is more than just words; it's a declaration of our need for Allah's mercy, especially in a place dedicated to His worship. By asking for the 'doors of mercy' to be opened, we are essentially asking for Allah to accept our prayers, forgive our shortcomings, and grant us His divine blessings during our time in the Masjid. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that the angels supplicate for us while we are in our place of prayer, asking Allah to have mercy on us.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Humayd As-Sa'idi: The Prophet ﷺ said, 'When one of you enters a Masjid, he should say: 'O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.' And when he leaves it, he should say: 'O Allah, I ask You for Your Bounties (or Grace).' Sahih Muslim 714