Does asking God to grant a servant a status close to that of the Prophet (peace be upon him), the prophets, the Companions, and their followers contradict the Sharia texts? If it does not contradict, how can this status be attained despite humble deeds? Is increasing piety along with performing recommended acts sufficient to surpass those who are less than the Companions in this rank? Does the superiority in these ranks include the elevation and refinement of the things contained therein?

Al-Firdaws is the highest and middle part of Paradise, from which the rivers of Paradise gush forth, and above it is the Throne of the Most Merciful.

It has been established that righteous believers will inherit it, and that Allah has prepared it for the mujahidin (those who strive in His cause). When the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, asked the Companions to supplicate, he commanded them to ask for Al-Firdaws.

Muslims who enter Al-Firdaws will not be at the same level as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and his Companions, but they are promised to accompany and visit them, without equality in ranks.

The ranks of the people of Al-Firdaws vary according to their deeds and their sincerity in following the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him. This is evident in the vision of the people of the higher ranks looking at the people of the uppermost chambers like a star.

Grief and regret over not attaining what the predecessors attained are blameworthy, because they do not motivate action but rather lead to despair and weakness of heart. A Muslim should ask Allah for His bounty and not wish for what others have been favored with.

A higher rank in Paradise means a higher degree of bliss and a greater proximity to Allah Almighty and seeing Him. Among the reasons for reaching high ranks and earning the companionship of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, are abundant prostration and sincere worship.