How do we distinguish between those who are from the period of ignorance (al-fatra) and those who are from the people of shirk (associating partners with Allah), such as the parents of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him)?

Question:
He says: Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success, how do we distinguish between those who are from the people of the period of ignorance (al-fatra) who are tested, and the people of shirk (associating partners with Allah), such as the parents of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), who died before the mission of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him)? It may be said that the argument was not established against them and that they are from the people of the period of ignorance (al-fatra). So what is the answer?

Answer:
We proceed according to the apparent reality. They died as mushrikin (those who associate partners with Allah). We do not judge them regarding the Hereafter; rather, we judge them in this world. Therefore, we do not seek forgiveness for them, nor do we invoke mercy upon them. As for the Hereafter, their affair is with Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He). Yes.