The Ruling on Minor Shirk and the Difference Between It and Major Shirk

Question:
Allah the Exalted has stated in the verses He revealed His ruling regarding the people of shirk (associating partners with Allah); for He will never be pleased with them. Does this apply to all types of shirk, both minor and major, as well as to riya' (showing off in worship)?

Answer:
The apparent meaning of the verse is general, but the one who commits minor shirk is not forgiven in the sense that he must be punished for his shirk. However, his ultimate destination is Paradise, like the sinners among the monotheists. This is different from sins other than minor shirk, such as zina (unlawful sexual intercourse), theft, and drinking intoxicants. These are subject to Allah's will: if He wills, He forgives them, and if He wills, He punishes for them. As for minor shirk, it is not included in this category; one must be punished for it, but he will not remain in the Fire eternally, except for the people of major shirk. This is the difference between major and minor shirk: Allah does not forgive either of them, but major shirk results in eternal punishment, while minor shirk results in punishment for a period, after which the person enters Paradise. Some scholars hold that it is included in forgiveness if his good deeds outweigh his bad deeds, even if he has committed minor shirk. We seek help from Allah. Yes.