Kissing the thumbs upon hearing prophet (s.a.w) name during azaan

Your Aqaaid of having utmost respect for Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] is correct. However, it should be borne in mind that Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] is the prophet of Allah. Allah is the Creator, Nourisher and Cherisher. A Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] too is bound by the laws of Almighty Allah Ta?ala and has to express submission and subjugation to Allah Ta?ala. Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] himself said, ?I am but just a humble slave of Allah?.

Nowadays, there are those who surpass the limits of respect with the result of elevating the status of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] to the status of Allah. Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] said, ?Do not exaggerate in my praises as the Christians exaggerated in the praises of Eesa [alayhis salaam], thus, raising him to the position of God.?

Respect for Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] dictates emulating his teachings. It would be disrespectful to do anything against the Sunnah of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. Kissing the thumbs upon hearing the name of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] has no basis in Shari?ah. To carry out such an act as a Sunnah is bid?ah and sin.

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai