—these practices are forbidden by the agreement of the Muslims, even at the graves of the prophets. None of the early generations of this community or its imams did this. Rather, it is a form of associating partners with Allah. Allah Most High says:
“And they said, ‘Never abandon your gods; never abandon Wadd, Suwāʿ, Yaghūth, Yaʿūq, or Nasr.’”
“They have indeed led many astray.”
It has already been explained that these were the names of righteous men among the people of Noah, and that people remained devoted to their graves for a time. Then, after a long period had passed, they made statues of them. This is especially so when these practices are accompanied by supplicating to the deceased and seeking his aid. We have already discussed this and explained the association of partners with Allah that it involves. We have also explained the difference between “innovated visitation,” whose practitioners imitate the Christians, and “visitation prescribed by the religion.”
As for lowering one’s head before eminent figures, whether shaykhs or others, kissing the ground, and similar acts, the imams are unanimous in forbidding them. Indeed, merely bending one’s back before anyone other than Allah, Mighty and Majestic, is forbidden. It is related in al-Musnad and elsewhere:
“When Muʿādh ibn Jabal, may Allah be pleased with him, returned from Syria, he prostrated before the Prophet, may Allah bless him and his family and grant him peace. He said, ‘What is this, Muʿādh?’
“He replied, ‘Messenger of Allah, I saw them in Syria prostrating before their bishops and patriarchs, and they attribute this practice to their prophets.’
“He said, ‘They have lied, Muʿādh. If I were to command anyone to prostrate before another, I would command a woman to prostrate before her husband, because of the great right he has over her. Muʿādh, tell me: if you passed by my grave, would you prostrate?’
“He replied, ‘No.’
“He said, ‘Do not do this.’”
Or words to that effect spoken by the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and his family and grant him peace.