Did Imam Al-Shafi'i visit the grave of Imam Abu Hanifa with the intention of seeking blessings, and is this action considered Islamically permissible?
The summary of what is narrated in this story by Makram ibn Ahmad in his book "Manaqib Abi Hanifa" is as follows:
This story is narrated about Al-Shafi'i, who is reported to have said: "Indeed, I seek blessings through Abu Hanifa, and I come to his grave every day. When I have a need, I pray two rak'ahs, then I come to his grave and ask Allah for the need, and it is not long before it is fulfilled."
This narration has been judged as false and fabricated by scholars, including Al-Daraqutni, Ibn Taymiyyah, Ibn Al-Qayyim, Al-Mu'allimi, and Al-Albani.
They mentioned several reasons for its invalidity, among them: 1. Makram ibn Ahmad's book was accused of fabrication and lying by Al-Daraqutni. 2. The narrators, Umar ibn Ishaq ibn Ibrahim and Ali ibn Maymun, are unknown, and it is not established that Ali ibn Maymun heard from Al-Shafi'i. 3. Al-Shafi'i would not have done that, and such an act was not known in his time. 4. Abu Hanifa's companions did not seek supplication at Abu Hanifa's grave or elsewhere. 5. Al-Shafi'i disliked the veneration of creatures' graves for fear of fitna (temptation/strife) concerning them.
Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah stated that such stories are fabricated by those whose knowledge and religiosity are deficient.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/3047