Some people offer Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid

Q 5: Is it obligatory to offer the two supererogatory Rak`ahs (units of Prayer) before Fajr (Dawn) Prayer? If the prescribed time of Fajr Prayer is over, which should be offered first: these two supererogatory Rak`ahs or Fajr Prayer? Does a person have to offer these two Rak`ahs before offering the two Rak`ahs of Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid (two-unit Prayer to salute the mosque) if one enters the Masjid (mosque) after the Adhan (call to Prayer) is announced?

A: The two Rak`ahs performed before Fajr Prayer are included among the supererogatory Salahs that were regularly performed by the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). If the prescribed time of Fajr Prayer is over, these two Rak`ahs have to be offered before Fajr Prayer. If a person forgets to offer these two Rak`ahs at home and enters the Masjid after the Adhan is announced, one has to offer them and there will be no need to offer Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid, as they are sufficient. (Part No. 7; Page No. 242) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.