The visiting of graves is from respect of men, that they
are not animals. As to their degrees in life, we are respecting
them still, so they will not be lost. For saints
and Prophets, we are keeping their tombs. In their life,
mercy was coming on them, and after their leaving this
life also mercy is coming. And we are asking for Mercy.
It is an occasion to be with them as they were in life,
and at least as they are in their tombs. They are living
in their tombs in a life suited to that world. They may
see and hear.

The Prophet, peace be upon him, used to visit the
tomb of his uncle, Sayyidinâ Hamza, and sit and recite
there. It is not a forbidden thing. Every week he was
going to the Jannat-il-Baqi‘ or to Mount Ohud to visit
the martyrs there. It is a permission given to us, not
against shari‘ah. We are keeping the tombs of saints
that they might not be lost. Not worshipping tombs,
no, only asking for that mercy coming on them, and
praying for them. For every believer you may pray,
send to them a prayer as a gift from us.