Seeking permission and spreading peace at every door

with Hatmah Naluggwa Ssekaya

Assalam alaykum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh

Islam teaches us that privacy is sacred. Entering or leaving someone’s home is not a casual act—it is governed by adab that protects dignity, strengthens trust, and spreads peace. Allah S.W clearly instructs:

“O you who believe! Do not enter houses other than your own until you have sought permission and greeted their inhabitants. That is better for you, that you may be reminded.” (Qur’an 24:27)

Every doorway in Islam is a moment to practice humility and respect.

Adab of Entering Homes:

Seek permission before entering, even when visiting close family.

Give salam first — Assalaam ʿalaykhum — before asking to enter.

Wait patiently if there is no response; do not insist or peep inside.

Accept refusal gracefully — Islam teaches that being turned away is not an insult.

Adab of Leaving Homes:

Leave with gratitude, thanking the host sincerely.

Make du’a for the household, asking Allah to bless them.

Depart respectfully, without overstaying or rushing awkwardly.

The Prophet Muhammad taught that permission should be sought up to three times; if there is no response, one should return without resentment.

Respecting privacy preserves honor, prevents suspicion, and nurtures trust. Islam protects personal space long before modern concepts of privacy existed.

Practical tip:

Teach children to knock, wait, and give salaam before entering rooms at home — adab begins within our own households.

Takeaway: Every door in Islam is opened with permission, peace, and respect.

Assalaam alaykhum wa rahmatulahi wa barakaatuhu…