Through what may we seek intercession with Allah?

Subject: Q. Through what may we seek intercession with Allah?

A. 1. The permitted and desired form of intercession is to supplicate to Him by His Names and Attributes, and by righteous deeds, and by seeking the blessings of the righteous (who are living), Allah says:

"And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah, so call on Him by them..." [Noble Qur'an 7:180]

Allah also says:

"O you who believe! Do your duty to Allah and fear Him. Seek the means of approach to Him,..." [Noble Qur'an 5:35]

In his commentary on this verse Ibn kathir mentioned a Hadith narrated by Qatadah: The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

"I ask You by all Your Names, with which You call Yourself." [Ahmad]

And another Hadith in which he (peace be upon him) said to one of his companions who asked to be with him in Paradise:

"(You can) help me in this matter by frequent non-obligatory prayers." [Muslim]

Or follow the example of the three persons who were trapped in a cave (by a fallen rock) then they prayed to Allah mentioning their righteous deeds and Allah removed the rock and they were able to get out.

It is permitted to pray for intercession to Allah mentioning our love of Him or the love of the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and pious persons, since our love for them is also considered an act ofgood deed.