Can one attain the status of prophets or be at their rank, excluding the status of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, despite the Almighty’s saying: "And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger – those will be with the ones upon whom Allah has bestowed favor of the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, the martyrs and the righteous. And excellent are those as companions"?

The Shari'ah encourages high aspirations and eagerness for noble matters. The Companions sought the best deeds and those most beloved to Allah, so they could perform them. No matter how much a Muslim strives in good deeds, they will never equal any of the Companions, let alone the Prophets. The companionship mentioned in the verse {And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger - those will be with the ones upon whom Allah has bestowed favor of the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, the martyrs and the righteous. And excellent are those as companions} indicates companionship, accompanying, and sharing in the entry of the obedient into Paradise with the Prophets. It does not necessitate reaching their rank, as companionship occurs merely by being together in something and is not required in all things.