What is the interpretation of Imam Al-Dhahabi's silence regarding the narration he mentioned in his biography of Imam Al-Bukhari in "Siyar A'lam Al-Nubala'," which tells of seeking rain at the grave of Imam Al-Bukhari, despite this act being considered an innovation (bid'ah), and why did he not comment on it, contrary to his critical methodology?

What displeased the questioner is truly deserving of such a reaction, for the content of this story contradicts our religion and infringes upon the pure monotheism due to the Lord of the Worlds. Proof is established only through the texts of Islamic law, from the Book of Allah the Almighty and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace be upon him, and then from the understanding of the Companions and those who followed them in goodness from the three favored generations. As for the sayings of scholars, they are supported by evidence, but are not themselves evidence.

Al-Dhahabi and other scholars do not advocate seeking intercession or blessings through the essence of those buried, but rather it falls under the category of supplication in places where mercy and blessings descend. Al-Shawkani clarified that the reason for this is increased honor and the descent of blessings, provided that no corruption arises from it, such as believing what is not permissible concerning the deceased.

The assertion that supplication at the graves of the righteous is forbidden is an error that contradicts the apparent Sunnah and what has been transmitted from the righteous predecessors. Nothing authentically established regarding its desirability has been transmitted from the three favored generations. Whatever has been narrated in this regard is either a lie or from an unknown source. Acts of worship are established by the Book of Allah, the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace be upon him, and the path of the early predecessors.