What is the ruling on circumambulating graves?

Question : Yes, that is correct. As for the ruling, this act of circumambulation is specific to Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He). But how does one mean it? If a person circumambulates graves or something similar, does this constitute major shirk (associating partners with Allah) or...

Answer : If the one circumambulating the graves intends to worship the deceased in the grave as he worships Allah, then this is major shirk, without a doubt. And if he circumambulates the graves thinking that this brings him closer to having his answer, and that the one being circumambulated and asked is Allah, then it is not major shirk; rather, it depends on his intention. If he circumambulates saying, "I hope for benefit, harm, reward, and protection from punishment from this person," then he is a disbeliever.