(4-4) The Prayer upon Entering and Leaving the Home

It is prescribed for a Muslim to perform two rak'ahs when entering his home and when leaving it.

Abū Hurayrah reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “When you enter your home, perform two rak'ahs that will guard you against an evil entrance; and when you leave your home, perform two rak'ahs that will guard you against an evil exit.” Recorded by al-Bazzār. (1)

(5-4) Performing Two Rak'ahs after Ablution

It is prescribed for a Muslim to perform two rak'ahs after ablution. Abundant virtue and great reward have been established for this prayer, provided that he turns his heart and face wholly toward it.

Uqbah ibn Āmir said: We used to take turns tending the camels. When my turn came, I brought them back in the evening. I then came upon the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, standing and addressing the people, and I heard him say: “There is no Muslim who performs ablution well, then stands and performs two rak'ahs, turning his heart and face wholly toward them, except that Paradise becomes his due.” I said, “How excellent this is!” Then someone in front of me said, “What came before it is even better.” I looked and saw that it was Umar. He said, “I saw that you had only just arrived.” He then said: “There is no one among you who performs ablution and completes it (or: performs it thoroughly), then says, ‘I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is Allah’s servant and His Messenger,’ except that the eight gates of Paradise are opened for him, and he may enter through whichever one he wishes.” Recorded by Muslim. (2)