What are the ranks of wilayah, who are the Awliya (saints/friends of God), and is it permissible to call them "Companions of Allah"?

Who are the allies (awliya’) of Allah? They are believers who fear Allah, obey His commands, and avoid sins. They will have no fear in the Hereafter and no grief over worldly matters.

Levels of closeness to Allah: Wrongdoer to himself: A believer who commits sins. Moderate: Fulfills obligations and avoids prohibitions. Foremost in good deeds: Excels in voluntary acts and inner worship—this is the highest level. The prophets are the highest-ranking allies of Allah.

Is closeness to Allah exclusive? No, it’s open to anyone with faith and piety. It’s not inherited or tied to social status.

Is a wali (ally of Allah) infallible? No. Committing sins reduces one’s closeness to Allah. Exaggerating in honoring awliya’ can lead to major shirk (associating partners with Allah).

Is it correct to say “companions of Allah”? No. This term isn’t supported. The Prophet ﷺ referred to “the people of the Qur’an” as “the people of Allah and His special ones.”