Etiquette for Entering the Mosque
Amidst the historical challenges of fragmentation and weakness faced by Muslims, one of the first commands given by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) upon his arrival in the city he illuminated was to establish a mosque. This mosque was intended to unite people, aid those in need, teach individuals about their faith, and facilitate planning for the future of the call to Islam and its dissemination across the vast territories of Allah, which eagerly awaited the message of the true religion.
Furthermore, mosques hold immense significance not only for Muslims but also for non-Muslims, as they possess a unique sanctity in the eyes of many. They serve as the foundation for Islamic expansion and function as local councils, addressing the concerns and challenges faced by the community. Accordingly, it is essential to observe certain etiquettes when entering the mosque and while praying within its walls. These etiquettes include:
- Wearing clean and decent clothing.
- Avoid consuming garlic or onions prior to visiting.
- Removing footwear before entering.
- Entering the mosque with the right foot.
- Reciting the supplication for entering the mosque.
- Greeting the worshippers present.
- Performing the two units of prayer known as the Sunnah of entering the mosque.
- Avoiding idle talk and gossip.
- Maintaining a low voice inside the mosque.
- Refraining from disturbing others, even through gestures or subtle hints.
- Staying in the mosque until the prayer time concludes.
- Sitting upright and avoiding sleep within the mosque.
These are a few of the important etiquettes that attendees of mosques should embody. It is worth noting that these guidelines are not exhaustive. Worshippers may adopt additional practices that benefit the community, provided that they do not inadvertently harm others in any way. Furthermore, it is crucial for Muslims to remember that mosques are the houses of Allah (Exalted and Glorified be He).
The Significance of the Mosque in the Quran
Allah (Exalted and Glorified be He) has highlighted the importance of mosques in the Quran through numerous verses that discuss their significance and sanctity. Some of these verses include:
- Allah (Exalted be He) says: “And who is more unjust than one who prevents the name of Allah from being mentioned in His mosques and strives to ruin them? It is not for them to enter them except in fear. For them in this world is disgrace, and they will have in the Hereafter a great punishment.” (Quran 2:114)
- Allah (Exalted be He) mentions: “The mosques of Allah are only to be maintained by those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and establish prayer and give zakat and do not fear except Allah. For it is expected that those will be among the rightly guided.” (Quran 9:18)
- Allah (Exalted be He) states: “O Children of Adam, take your adornment at every mosque and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.” (Quran 7:31)
The Educational and Developmental Importance of the Mosque
The mosque has historically served as a beacon for individuals seeking knowledge and nurturing their children. Many scientific, literary, and educational gatherings have taken place within its walls, fostering the growth of a conscious generation, firm in their belief in Allah (Exalted be He) and well-versed in both religious and worldly sciences. This empowers them to contribute to the upliftment of the ummah. The Mosque of Cordoba in Andalusia remains a prime example of such an influence.