What is the ruling on exaggerating in revering brothers for the sake of Allah and becoming attached to others under the guise of love for the sake of Allah, and what are the limits of brotherhood for the sake of Allah? And is its highest degree intimate friendship (khullah)? And what is the Sharīʿah's opinion on private and general brotherhood and the ranks of brotherhood? And is it permissible to take the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, as an intimate friend (khalīl) after his death?

Brotherhood for the sake of Allah is one of the fruits of faith, and love for the sake of Allah is a noble meaning, but Satan may use it to lead people into forbidden infatuation. A Muslim must differentiate between the two. Khullah (intimate friendship) is the highest degree of love, signifying a sincere friend whose love has permeated the heart. There is no harm in a Muslim taking the Prophet, peace be upon him, as a Khalīl (intimate friend), whether during his lifetime or after his death, as this has been reported in the Hadith of Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him. Love for the Prophet, peace be upon him, means obeying him and following his Sharīʿah (divine law).