Is the prescribed tawassul (seeking nearness to Allah through a means) considered taking an intermediary between the servant and his Lord?

Question:
He says: Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success, is the prescribed tawassul (seeking nearness to Allah through a means) considered taking an intermediary between the servant and his Lord?

Answer:
No, taking an intermediary between the servant and his Lord is not prescribed; it is forbidden and not prescribed. If one draws near to the intermediary with some form of worship, this becomes major shirk (associating partners with Allah). However, if one does not draw near to the intermediary with worship, but merely takes him as an intermediary, claiming that he brings one closer to Allah, and does not direct any worship to him, then this is bid'ah (religious innovation). This innovated tawassul (seeking nearness to Allah through a means) is not permissible.