Are the Prophet's (PBUH) Household (Ahl al-Bayt) still among us, and can one of them abandon prayer? What is the difference between them and other pious believers in the sight of Allah? Will they intercede for people on the Day of Judgment? Is it obligatory for someone who knows they are from the Household to disclose this to people? Should they boast about it? Are they punished for sins with double the penalty of other believers?

The Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt), peace and blessings be upon him, are: his children and grandchildren, and the families of Ali, Abbas, Ja’far, Aqeel, and Al-Harith ibn Abd al-Muttalib, and his wives, according to the preponderant opinion. To be attributed to them, clear evidence is required, and the individual must be a Muslim who does not abandon prayer entirely. Superiority in the sight of Allah is based on piety and righteous deeds. It is possible for someone not attributed to Ahl al-Bayt to be better than someone who is, and there is no evidence that their proximity to the Prophet guarantees intercession. Attribution to them is an honor for whoever adheres to obedience to Allah, and it entails a greater burden and responsibility. It is permissible to state this, provided it is not done out of vanity or arrogance.