Upon Entering the Mosque, A Supplication
In Islam, dua is an essential part of worship and communication with Allah. It is a means for a believer to seek guidance, forgiveness, and blessings from the Almighty. Dua is a powerful tool that connects a person to their Creator and strengthens their faith. It is a way of showing gratitude and seeking help in times of need. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of dua in various hadiths and encouraged his followers to make supplications regularly.
One of the most significant and rewarding acts in Islam is entering the masjid (mosque). It is a place of worship, remembrance of Allah, and seeking knowledge. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “When one of you comes to the masjid, he should say, ‘I seek refuge in Allah, the Supreme, and by His Noble Face, and His Eternal Dominion, from the accursed devil.'” (Abu Dawud)
This hadith highlights the importance of seeking Allah’s protection and blessings before entering the masjid. It is a practice that demonstrates humility and a recognition of the sacredness of the place of worship. Additionally, the act of making dua before entering the masjid serves as a means of seeking Allah’s assistance in maintaining focus and sincerity during the worship.
Dua for Entering Masjid
The dua for entering the masjid is a simple yet profound supplication that every Muslim should recite before stepping into the place of worship. The dua is as follows:
Arabic:
أَعوذُ بِاللّهِ العَظِيـمِ، وَبِوَجْهِـهِ الكَرِيـمِ وَسُلْطـَانِه
القَدِيـمِ، مِنَ الشَّيْـطَانِ الرَّجِـيمِ، [ بِسْـمِ اللّهِ وَالصَّلَاةُ ]
[وَالسَّلامُ عَلَى رَسُولِ اللّهِ]، اَللَّهُـمَّ افْتَـحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ
رَحْمَتـِكَ
Transliteration:
aAAoothu billahil-AAatheem wabiwajhihil-kareem wasultanihil-qadeem minash-shaytanir-rajeem, [bismil-lah, wassalatu] [wassalamu AAala rasoolil-lah] , allahumma iftah lee abwaba rahmatik.
Translation:
“I take refuge with Allah, The Supreme and with His Noble Face, and His eternal authority from the accursed devil. In the name of Allah, and prayers and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah. O Allah, open the gates of Your mercy for me.”
This dua embodies humbleness, seeking forgiveness, and beseeching Allah’s mercy. By reciting this supplication, a believer acknowledges their shortcomings and seeks Allah’s grace and blessings before entering the masjid. It serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual purification and seeking Allah’s forgiveness before engaging in acts of worship.
The significance of dua for entering the masjid cannot be overstated. It is a practice that is deeply rooted in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and holds immense spiritual value for every Muslim. By reciting this dua, one can attain Allah’s forgiveness, blessings, and mercy, thereby enhancing the spiritual experience of worship and strengthening their connection with the Creator.
It is also important to note that making sincere dua and giving charity with the intention of seeking Allah’s pleasure can help in granting one’s supplications. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Charity does not in any way decrease the wealth and the servant who forgives, Allah adds to his respect; and the one who shows humility, Allah elevates his status.” (Muslim)
Therefore, by combining the act of giving charity with sincere intentions and making supplications, a believer can increase their likelihood of having their prayers answered. It is a demonstration of faith, gratitude, and altruism that can bring about immense blessings and rewards from Allah. As such, it is essential for every Muslim to incorporate dua for entering the masjid and the act of giving charity into their spiritual routine, with the hope of receiving Allah’s mercy and blessings.