What is the ruling on uttering the greeting of peace (Salam) upon entering the mosque, whether there are worshipers present or not?
The majority of scholars disliked offering Salām to someone who is praying, whereas the Hanbalis held that it is not disliked, citing the verse: ﴿So when you enter houses, greet yourselves with Salām﴾, and the action of Ibn ‘Umar, and the Prophet's (peace be upon him) approval of the one who greeted him while he was praying, as narrated in the hadith of Suhayb (may Allah be pleased with him). However, if you enter a mosque and there is no one in it, or there are people who are not praying or reciting Quran, it is recommended to offer Salām in an audible voice. And if one enters his house or a mosque where there is no one, it is recommended for him to say: "Peace be upon us and upon the righteous servants of Allah."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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