Where Does the Sunnah of Entering the Masjid Begin?
Question
If we follow the Sunnah of entering the masjid with the right foot and leaving with the left, where exactly does the masjid begin? Is it the property line, the building, or the musalla?
Answer
Alhamdulillah, wassalatu wassalamu ala rasulillah, wa ala alihi wa sahbihi ajmain.
In fiqh, a masjid is the place set aside for prayer, not the entire property around it. Because of that, the Sunnah of entering with the right foot applies when you step into the actual prayer area.
Parking lots, stairs, courtyards, entrances, and hallways are simply paths leading to the masjid. They are not considered the masjid itself.
So in practical terms, when you reach the door that opens into the musalla, that is where you enter with the right foot. When you leave the prayer area, you step out with the left foot.
There is no need to overthink this. The Sunnah is about honoring the place of salah, not making things difficult.
The Relevant Usul Principle
العبرة بالمعاني لا بالأسماء
Consideration is given to the reality and function, not merely names or labels.
Final Ruling
The Sunnah of entering with the right foot and leaving with the left applies at the entrance and exit of the musalla, the area designated for prayer. It does not apply to the grounds, stairs, or general building spaces unless they are part of the prayer area.
And Allah knows best.