[roundman]

In the book "Differences in the Ummah and the Straight Path" Maulana Yusuf Ludhianvi Shaheed refutes the practice of asking the pious dead to make dua for you as a bid'ah that must be avoided. But immediately after that Maulana Sahib stated:

At this juncture, I would like to clarify a certain point --- this entire discussion is regarding the non-prophets. Regarding the Ambiyaa (alaihi salaam), especially, our Nabi (sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam) my belief is that he is alive (in his grave). It (permissibility) has been recorded in our Kitaabs regarding going to the blessed grave of Nabi (sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam) and making Durood and Salaam there and also to request for intercession. So, whoever that has the excellent fortune of presenting himself at the graveside of our Nabi (sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam) and making dua and seeking his intercession, I regard this not merely as being permissible, in fact, it is commendable and most virtuous. And Allaah Ta`ala Knows best. What is the proof for this from ahadith and practice of the Salaf?