How to Perform the Prayer of Greeting the Mosque (Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid)
The Prayer of Greeting the Mosque, or Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid, is a short but significant prayer that is offered upon entering a mosque. This prayer is not obligatory, but it is highly recommended in Islamic tradition. It is a sunnah (voluntary) prayer, and its purpose is to honor the mosque and prepare oneself spiritually for the main prayer (Salah), particularly when entering the mosque before the start of a congregational prayer.
Importance of Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid
Entering a mosque is a moment of connection to Allah, and it is a place where Muslims gather to worship and seek tranquility. The greeting prayer symbolizes respect for the place of worship and sets the tone for a peaceful and focused prayer experience. It is an opportunity for the worshipper to perform an act of devotion, no matter the time, and serve as a reminder of the sanctity of the mosque.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said, “When any one of you enters the mosque, let him pray two rak’ahs before sitting down.” (Sahih Bukhari). This hadith emphasizes the importance of performing the greeting prayer when entering the mosque.
When to Perform Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid
Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid can be performed when one enters the mosque, before sitting down, even if there is no formal prayer taking place. This means that the prayer is performed at any time of the day, and it is done to acknowledge the sacredness of the space.
However, there are a few exceptions to consider:
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During the times when prayer is forbidden (Makruh times): There are certain periods during the day when it is not encouraged to perform voluntary prayers, such as at the exact times of sunrise, sunset, or when the sun is at its zenith (midday). During these times, offering Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid would be discouraged.
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When there is an ongoing congregational prayer: If a congregational prayer is in progress, it is preferable to join the congregation rather than offering the greeting prayer. However, if you enter during the prayer, you should silently join the congregation, and then you may perform Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid afterward if you wish.
How to Perform Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid
The prayer itself consists of two rak’ahs, and the steps to perform them are as follows:
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Intention (Niyyah): Before starting the prayer, make a firm intention in your heart that you are performing Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid to honor the mosque and as a sunnah prayer. The intention is silent, but it is important to have it in your heart.
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Start with Takbir al-Ihram: Begin by raising your hands and saying “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest), which signifies the start of the prayer. This marks the transition from the worldly state into the prayerful state.
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Recite Surah Al-Fatiha: After the Takbir, recite Surah Al-Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Qur’an, while standing. This is an essential part of any rak’ah in prayer.
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Recite another Surah: After Surah Al-Fatiha, it is recommended to recite another Surah of the Qur’an. It can be any short chapter, but a commonly recited one is Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112), as it is short and easy to memorize.
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Ruku (Bowing): After completing the recitation, go into ruku (bowing), lowering your body so that your back is level and your head is aligned with your back. While bowing, say “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” (Glory is to my Lord, the Most Great) at least three times.
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I’tidal (Standing up from Ruku): After bowing, rise back to a standing position while saying “Sami’ Allahu liman hamidah, Rabbana lakal hamd” (Allah hears the one who praises Him, our Lord, to You is all praise).
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Sujud (Prostration): From standing, move into the sujud (prostration) position, where your forehead, nose, both palms, knees, and toes touch the ground. In the sujud, say “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory is to my Lord, the Most High) at least three times.
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Jalsa (Sitting): After the first sujud, sit on your legs briefly while saying “Rabbighfir li” (My Lord, forgive me).
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Second Sujud: Perform a second prostration, repeating the same words as in the first.
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Second Rak’ah: After completing the second sujud, rise to the second rak’ah, repeating the same actions: reciting Surah Al-Fatiha, another Surah, bowing, standing, prostrating, and sitting.
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Tashahhud (Testification): After the second rak’ah, sit for the final tashahhud (testification). In this sitting, recite the Shahada (testimony of faith), saying:
“At-tahiyyatu lil-lahi wa-as-salawatu wa-at-tayyibatu, assalamu ‘alayka ayyuhan-nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh, assalamu ‘alayna wa ‘ala ibadillahis-salihin, ash-hadu alla ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu wa ash-hadu anna Muhammad abduhoo wa rasooluh.” -
Tasleem (Salutation): Finally, after completing the tashahhud, turn your head to the right and say “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you). Repeat the same to the left.
What to Do if You Are Not Able to Perform Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid
There are certain scenarios where a person might not be able to perform Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid. For example, if you enter the mosque during the congregational prayer, you should join the prayer instead of performing the greeting prayer. Similarly, if you enter during one of the makruh times (forbidden prayer times), you should avoid performing Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid.
In such cases, it is still recommended to perform some other voluntary prayer, especially after the obligatory prayers, to maintain the spirit of devotion and closeness to Allah.
Conclusion
Salat al-Tahiyyat al-Masjid is a simple but meaningful sunnah prayer that serves as a way to show respect for the mosque and prepare oneself spiritually for the upcoming prayer. Though not obligatory, its performance is highly encouraged, and it is a gesture that reflects the importance of maintaining the sanctity and reverence for places of worship in Islam. The prayer consists of two rak’ahs and can be offered at any time a person enters the mosque, except during times when voluntary prayers are prohibited.
Incorporating this small act of worship into one’s routine can bring blessings and help to enhance the mindfulness and spirituality one experiences during prayers in the mosque.