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, particularly when seeking solace and peace from anxiety. The Masjid is a sanctuary, and approaching it with this supplication can help shift your mindset towards seeking Allah's (SWT) divine comfort and assistance as you step into His house.
How to Read
Recite this dua after stepping across the threshold of the Masjid, ideally with your right foot. It's a moment to consciously connect with Allah (SWT) and express your reliance on Him for peace and tranquility. Imagine the doors of Allah's immense mercy opening before you as you speak these words.
Virtues & Benefits
The Masjid is a place where Allah's (SWT) mercy is abundant. By seeking the 'doors of Your mercy' upon entering, you are actively inviting that divine compassion into your heart, which can be incredibly effective in alleviating feelings of anxiety. This act also signifies humility and dependence on Allah (SWT) for spiritual and emotional well-being, a core aspect of our faith. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also taught us to recite a specific dua upon entering the Masjid, demonstrating the importance of this sacred space in our lives.
Source & Authentication
Abu Usayd Malik ibn Rab'ah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: 'When one of you enters the Masjid, he should say: 'Allahumma aftah li abwaba fadlik' (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your grace). And when he leaves, he should say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka min fadlik' (O Allah, I ask You from Your grace).' (Sahih Muslim 713). *Note: While the primary dua for entering the masjid is 'Allahumma aftah li abwaba fadlik' (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your grace), seeking Allah's mercy ('rahmatik') is intrinsically linked and a powerful way to address anxiety. We can adapt the spirit of the Sunnah to our needs, especially when seeking solace.*