Is it permissible to say that some people are better than the Messenger, may God’s prayers and peace be upon him, in certain fields, such as poetry, and is one who says that in worldly matters sinful?

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is the best of creation by consensus, and expressions suggesting that anyone is better than him in any field are offensive and unfitting for his status, even if the intended meaning is correct.

For example, his not composing poetry is an honor for him, and it was he who said to his Companions: "You know best in matters of your worldly affairs." However, stating that someone is better than him in a worldly matter must be avoided, as it might create the illusion of belittling his great status, peace and blessings be upon him.

And if the speaker intends to disrespect the status of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, he may commit disbelief by doing so.