Was Abu Talib a close friend or a companion to the Prophet, and what was their relationship like?

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, had a close relationship with his uncle Abu Talib. Abu Talib raised him and loved him dearly after the death of his grandfather, and he protected and shielded him from the harm of the Quraysh after his prophethood, despite not embracing Islam. The Prophet also looked after his cousin, Ali ibn Abi Talib.

When the Quraysh besieged the Muslims and Banu Hashim in the mountain pass (Shi'b), Abu Talib defended the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him.

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, attempted to invite his uncle Abu Talib to Islam at the time of his death, but he died upon the religion of Abd al-Muttalib, and the Prophet was forbidden from seeking forgiveness for him.

Nevertheless, Abu Talib's punishment was lightened because of his protection of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him. The Prophet's love for his uncle was out of kinship and his defense of him.