Calling Upon the Prophets

Question

Some people, at times of calamity and need, call upon the prophets ﵈ or the noble awliya from afar by way of seeking help (istimdad), and believe that they hear. Is it permissible to say so in this manner or not, and what is the ruling on one who holds this belief? Saying “Ya Rasul Allah ﷺ” from afar, or reciting “ayyuha-n-nabi” (“O Prophet”) in prayer, while holding the belief that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is hearing our call and becomes aware of it — what is the ruling on one who holds such a belief?

Answer

This belief, too, is contrary to Islam. When holding such a belief about the Prophet ﷺ is kufr, how could it be correct with regard to any other prophet or wali? Saying “Ya Rasul Allah” with the belief that the Prophet ﷺ himself hears this voice from every place is impermissible. And saying it with the belief that the angels inform him ﷺ of it is correct.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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