Is it obligatory or merely recommended to prioritize love for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, over love for one's parents?

Prioritizing love for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, over love for one's parents is an individual obligation upon every Muslim. One cannot be a believer unless Allah and His Messenger are more beloved to him than anything else, because love for them is a condition of faith. Love for the Prophet is not a supererogatory act; rather, it is among the obligations and conditions of faith. Whoever reads the Prophet's biography and life will love him more than himself, which is why his Companions would sacrifice themselves for him. Therefore, a Muslim must read the Prophet's biography, the biographies of the Companions, and the righteous predecessors to achieve the required love for Allah, His Messenger, and the believers.