What is the ruling on seeking intercession through the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, in this world, and is that considered major shirk (polytheism)?

Scholars are unanimous that the Companions sought intercession through the Prophet, peace be upon him, during his lifetime. As for after his death, seeking his intercession—meaning requesting his intercession in the Afterlife—is permissible, but it should be sought from Allah, not from him. However, requesting from him what none but Allah can grant is shirk (polytheism). Previous fatwas have detailed seeking intercession through the Prophet and others to Allah in supplication, and seeking proximity through him after his death. We emphasize the necessity of restraint in discourse, even with opponents, for a believer is not one who slanders, curses, or is obscene, citing Aisha's حديث with the Jews.