What is the ruling on seeking blessings from scholars, righteous people, and their relics? Does this constitute likening someone other than the Prophet (peace be upon him) to the Prophet (peace be upon him)? Is it possible to seek blessings from the Prophet (peace be upon him) after his death? And what is the ruling on seeking intercession with Allah Almighty through the blessing of the Prophet (peace be upon him)?

It is not permissible to seek blessings from anyone other than the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, because this is exclusive to him due to the goodness and blessing Allah placed in his body. The Companions did not seek blessings from anyone else, which indicates the exclusivity of this to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and because seeking blessings from others is a means to polytheism. Likewise, it is not permissible to seek intercession with Allah through the Prophet's status, essence, attribute, or blessing, due to lack of evidence and because it is a means of exaggeration. The legal proofs permit seeking intercession through the beautiful names and attributes of Allah, through His love and the love of His Messenger, and through righteous deeds, as in the story of the people of the cave. The hadith (definition) of the blind man seeking intercession through the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was through his supplication and intercession, not through his essence or right.