Ziyarah of the grave of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa Sallam)

How to present one’s greetings in the court of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam)

Anyone’s preparation for a meeting depends on the one who he/she is going to meet.  In this world itself, we see many examples of this.  The court of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) is that place where even angels come respectfully.  The greatest saints go there with soft steps, their heads lowered, trembling and exuding respect in every possible way.  Thus, all those who go there, must be mindful of respect.  Imam Qustullani (May Allah shower His mercy on him) writes in Mawahib Al Ladunniya in this regard:

Translation: It is better for the person visiting the blessed grave that he (or she) should stand 4 feet away.  The visitor should stand with absolute respect.  He (or she) should obligate sincerity upon himself.  He should present himself with his eyes lowered the way he would do so in the earthly life of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) and it should be remembered that He (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) knows that the visitor is present there and hears the Salaam of the visitor as He did in His earthly life, because there is no difference between life and death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) in regard to seeing the Ummah, their conditions, intentions and aspirations and what goes on in their hearts as well.  All these are obvious to Him and there is nothing hidden. (Al Mawahib Al Ladunniya Ma’a Sharh Zurqani, Vol. 12, Pg. No. 195)