In the hadith [When one of you enters the mosque, he should not sit until he prays two rak'ahs], is it said that the greeting of the mosque is obligatory?

The questioner:
It is reported in a hadith from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) that he said So is it said that the greeting of the mosque is obligatory?

The Shaykh:
No, it is not obligatory; it is a matter of recommendation, not a matter of obligation. The evidence is that when the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) taught the man who was deficient in his prayer, he did not mention to him the regular prayer upon entering the mosque; he did not mention that to him. This is from one aspect. The second aspect is that when the Bedouin asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), "Is it obligatory for you to pray the five prayers?" he said, "No, except if you volunteer." And the greeting of the mosque falls under this. Yes.

The questioner:
Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success.

The Shaykh:
The Zahiris say it is obligatory, but the majority do not. Yes.