The Difference Between Major and Minor Shirk

Question:
The noblest of the major sins is a specific type of shirk.

Answer:
Minor shirk is one of the major sins, yes, minor shirk is among the major sins. However, it does not take one out of the religion, unlike major shirk. Otherwise, it would be among the grave sins. But it does not take one out of the religion; this is the difference between it and major shirk. Major shirk takes one out of the religion and nullifies deeds, whereas minor shirk does not take one out of the religion and does not nullify deeds. A deed may be nullified if it is mixed with showing off (riya'). If showing off is present with the deed, it nullifies it and grants no reward to its doer, meaning that specific deed only, not all deeds. Only what is mixed with showing off is nullified. Minor shirk does not take one out of the religion, but it is a major sin among the major sins. The scholars have differed on whether it is delayed or treated like the other major sins , or whether it is not forgiven and thus falls under His saying . Some of them say that it is not forgiven, even if it is minor, and that its doer must be punished, but he is not punished with the punishment of the one who commits major shirk. Major shirk does not result in eternal abode in the Fire; if he is punished, he will be brought out of the Fire. Some scholars hold that it falls under pardon and forgiveness, especially if the good deeds outweigh the bad. If the good deeds are heavier, then Allah forgives it. Yes.