اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.
Allahumma-ftah li abwaba rahmatik
When to Read
This dua is recited specifically upon entering the masjid with the intention of praying voluntary (nafl) prayers. It's a beautiful way to begin your worship, acknowledging that all blessings and ease come from Allah.
How to Read
Enter the masjid with your right foot first, after reciting the dua for entering the masjid. This dua is the specific supplication for seeking Allah's mercy as you prepare for voluntary worship within His house. Imagine yourself approaching a gate to a garden of immense peace and blessing, and asking its Custodian to let you in.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua invites Allah's mercy upon you as you enter His house to worship. It sets a tone of humility and reliance on Allah, seeking His favor for your prayers. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that the angels bear witness to those who go to the masjid for prayer, and making this dua is part of that blessed action.
Source & Authentication
عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ " إِذَا دَخَلَ أَحَدُكُمُ الْمَسْجِدَ فَلْيُسَلِّمْ عَلَى النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَلْيَقُلِ اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ فَضْلِكَ " . وَإِذَا خَرَجَ فَلْيُسَلِّمْ عَلَيْهِ وَلْيَقُلِ اللَّهُمَّ اعْصِمْنِي مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ " .