Is saying Salam or facing towards the grave of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and greeting him Shirk?

Question

I am asking so because a lot of muslims in Masjid Al Nabawi in Madina face to the grave of prophet Muhammad (PBUH) say Salam directly to prophet or read some Du'a:

السَّلامُ عَلَیکَ یا رَسول الله

But some people prevent them to do so (specially several years ago - they are more tolerate now I feel) and say:

• Prophet is passed away and he is no longer alive to hear us or reply our Salam.
• We should only ask Allah. Asking something from prophet is Shirk.
• We should face only towards Qibla. Facing towards the grave of prophet is Haram.

For sure the people who ask prophet something - like their forgiveness - don't think prophet is God or doing something independent of Allah. In fact they ask him to ask Allah something on behalf of them, because he has more reputation near Allah.

So is saying Salam to prophet Muhammad, asking him something, or facing towards his grave Shirk or Haram? The answers of both Sunni and Shia brothers/sisters are more than welcome.

Answer 1

• Saluting the Prophet (saaw) at his grave is not shirk. In fact, it is recommended.
• Asking him for help or money or pregnancy or even forgiveness is shirk.
• You are required to face Qibla only during prayers. Other than that, face anywhere you like.

Here is a fatwa from Bin Baz regarding this issue (in Arabic): http://www.binbaz.org.sa/mat/19164

(I'll try to translate parts of it later isA if I have time.)

Answer 2

It's also good to say that the shaf'a is being asked from its real owner Allah subhnih wo t'ala , he is the real owner of the shfa'a , and no one can make shfa'a unless Allah subhnih wo t'ala allow him .

prophet never tought people to ask shf'a from him

what is the meaning shafa'ah

Tafser of meaning of اية الكرسي