"The Prescribed and Prohibited Tawassul"

This book addresses the pivotal issue of Tawassul (intercession) and Shafa'ah (mediation), a concept over which understandings have greatly diverged across generations. It offers a foundational theological study that begins by examining the religious state of the Arabs during the pre-Islamic era (Jahiliyyah), illustrating how they strayed from the pure monotheism of the Prophets toward adopting intermediaries and partners with God. The author draws a crucial historical parallel, demonstrating the stark resemblance between the practices of the early pagan Arabs in seeking intercessors and the actions of those in later generations who supplicate to saints and righteous deceased figures, emphasizing that judgment must be based on the reality of actions rather than the names given to them. Furthermore, the book establishes the orthodox belief that while intercession (Shafa'ah) is an undeniable truth, it is strictly bound by Allah’s permission and approval, unlike worldly intercession based on nepotism or social status. It reinforces the fundamental principle that true emulation belongs solely to the Prophet ﷺ, who clearly demonstrated the correct manner of pleasing Allah. The author then highlights the practical implementation of the early Companions regarding prescribed Tawassul namely, supplicating by Allah’s Names and Attributes, through one's righteous deeds or by asking a living, present righteous person to pray for them. Conversely, it details prohibited boundaries, such as the impermissibility of traveling specifically to visit the graves of prophets or saints for blessings, thereby safeguarding the core of monotheism. Finally, the treatise presents definitive scriptural evidence showing that invoking others besides Allah or seeking aid from the dead constitutes major polytheism (Shirk Akbar) which invalidates all good deeds. It concludes by reviewing modern innovated behaviors that serve as gateways to polytheism, systematically dismantling the misconceptions raised by proponents of these practices using both textual and rational arguments to leave the reader upon a clear, unadulterated path of faith.