Who is meant by the “Al” (family) of the Messenger

Question

Question: Is the word “Al” specific to the ahl al-bayt (the household of the Prophet ﷺ) alone, or does it also include all the Companions ﵃ and all members of the Umma? If it includes all the Companions and all followers, then what need is there to add “and his Companions” (wa ashabihi) in the blessings on the Prophet (salawat)?

Answer

The word “Al al-Rasul” (the family of the Messenger) is specific to the ahl al-bayt; therefore the noble Companions ﵃ are also mentioned. In one narration it is also stated that whoever follows my way is my family (Al). Therefore, where the Companions are not mentioned, on the basis of this narration the Companions will be regarded as included in the “Al”.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

Preview. The full text opens with JavaScript enabled.