How many types of intercession are there, and which is the greatest?

Intercession, linguistically: the means and the request. Technically: asking for good for others. It is derived from shaf' (to make something even or double). It is affirmed for prophets, messengers, angels, martyrs, and the righteous.

Among its proofs are the hadith: "A man who is not a prophet will certainly enter Paradise through intercession," and the hadith: "The martyr intercedes for seventy members of his household."

Types of intercession:

1. The intercession of the Prophet, peace be upon him, for the people in the Standing (on the Day of Judgment) for the final judgment (the Praiseworthy Station).

2. The intercession of the Prophet, peace be upon him, to alleviate the torment for some disbelievers.

3. Intercession for those who deserved Hellfire but did not enter it.

4. Intercession to raise the ranks of those for whom intercession is made.