saints

Respected sheikh ,As-Salamu'alaikum,I would like to ask you about awliyas?Who is an awliya?Is it right to visit the Dharghas which most of asian muslims do?most of asian countries we can see people build the kubr of pious people whome died and pay respect.mostly ladies. 

Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. I am told that since we are weak and sinners, we can seek the intercession of saints who have died. I have heard that because they are closer to Allah than we are, they will plead on our behalf before Allah. Is this practice sanctioned in Islam? Jazakum Allah khayran.