Prayer Etiquette
A few courtesies that help everyone who comes to pray keep the congregation at peace and the prayer dignified.
Ablution & cleanliness
It is sunnah to come to the mosque in a state of ablution, in clean clothes and smelling pleasant. Please avoid coming straight after eating strong-smelling foods such as onion or garlic.
Entering the mosque
Enter with the right foot and a prayer. If time allows, offer two rak‘ahs of tahiyyat al-masjid before sitting down.
Rows
Rows are filled from the front, shoulder to shoulder and without gaps. A new row is started only when the one in front is full.
Those in prayer
Do not pass in front of someone who is praying. Placing a sutrah before you when praying sunnah makes it easier for others.
Phones
Switch your phone to silent or flight mode before entering. Phones are not used during the prayer or the sermon.
Quiet
Voices are kept low out of respect for those reciting, praying and making du‘a. When the adhan is called we fall silent, then say the du‘a after the adhan.
Friday prayer
On Fridays it is sunnah to take a full bath (ghusl), come early and listen to the sermon in silence. During the sermon, please do not walk between the rows or step over people.
Children
Helping children feel at home in the mosque is everyone’s duty. Keep them beside you and teach them its quiet with love.
Shoes
Leave your shoes on the racks and keep walkways and doorways clear.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The places most beloved to Allah are the mosques.” (Muslim 671). Let us come to them with the care that love deserves.