What is the ruling on mentioning the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, without invoking blessings upon him, and does this constitute deification of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace?

Praising Allah and sending blessings upon the Prophet are two acts of obedience by which one draws closer to Allah. Allah has encouraged glorification at all times and commanded sending blessings upon His Prophet. Scholars have differed regarding the obligation of sending blessings upon the Prophet when he is mentioned, with the view of it being highly recommended being stronger. Ibn Hajar mentioned that praising Allah is more emphasized than sending blessings upon the Prophet. This is supported by the Prophet's instruction to begin a supplication with praising Allah, then sending blessings upon him. The practice of the Companions was also thus. If this is established, then praising Allah is more emphasized than sending blessings upon the Prophet. Even if sending blessings upon the Prophet is obligatory, there is no deification in it, but rather compliance with the command of Allah and His Prophet.