requires an explicit textual proof, yet none exists. This is the first point.

Second: Certain passages of the Qur’an and rigorously authentic Sunnah indicate that the dead do not hear. The discussion is extensive, but I shall mention only one hadith and thereby conclude my reply. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah has angels who roam the earth conveying to me the salutations of my community.” 1 The term “roam” (sayyāḥīn) means they move about among gatherings, so whenever a Muslim invokes blessings upon the Prophet (peace be upon him), an angel specifically assigned to that task delivers that greeting to him. If the dead were able to hear, the one most entitled to such hearing would be our Prophet himself, given the favor Allah has bestowed on him and the distinctions He has granted him over every prophet, messenger, and all of creation. If anyone could hear after death, it would be the Prophet; and if the Prophet (peace be upon him) were able to hear anything after his passing, he would surely hear the prayers of his community upon him.

From this you may grasp the error—though not necessarily deliberate misguidance—of those who seek relief not only from the Prophet (peace be upon him) but from others beneath him, whether messengers, prophets, or righteous people. For even if they were to seek aid from the Messenger (peace be upon him), he would not hear them, just as