The Ruling on the Innovators Entering Paradise and Making Supplication for Them

Question:
Do the innovators enter Paradise?

Answer:
It depends on their innovation. If their innovation is one that entails disbelief, they do not enter Paradise. An innovation that entails disbelief is like worshipping graves, calling upon other than Allah (Mighty and Majestic), and denying the names and attributes of Allah, such as the Jahmiyyah. These people do not enter Paradise; this is an innovation that entails disbelief. However, if their innovation is misleading but does not entail disbelief, they are under the will of Allah. Allah knows best what will become of them. But as long as they remain upon the oneness of Allah, their ultimate destination is Paradise. However, they may be punished for their innovation and their deviation, as the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: This varies. That is, one may be in the Fire eternally because he is a disbeliever. One may be in the Fire because he is a sinner, and he is punished therein for as long as Allah wills, then he is brought out of it. Innovations are not all the same.
Yes. Frankly, if the innovator’s innovation entails disbelief, no mercy is invoked for him. But if he is a Muslim and his innovation does not reach the level of disbelief, he is included with the Muslims in supplications for forgiveness and that Allah will accept his repentance. The bottom line is that a disbeliever and one who associates partners with Allah are not sought to be forgiven, nor is supplication made for them. But one who is upon Islam, even if he has sins and evil deeds, is included with the Muslims in supplications for forgiveness. In fact, he is more deserving of supplication for him.