The Ruling on Minor and Major Shirk

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

Answer:
The text points to a general meaning. However, a Muslim who commits minor shirk does not appear to be in a state where he must be punished for shirk in the same way; rather, his ultimate fate is like that of the sinners among the monotheists. This is different from sins other than minor shirk, such as zina (unlawful sexual intercourse) and other major sins. We seek refuge in Allah from them, and perhaps Allah will forgive them. As for minor shirk, it is not included in the category of eternal punishment; one must be punished for it, and he will be punished for it, but he will not remain in the Fire forever. Only the people of major shirk remain in the Fire forever. This is the difference between major shirk and minor shirk: neither is exempt from punishment, but major shirk results in eternal and perpetual punishment, while minor shirk results in punishment to a certain degree, after which he enters Paradise. Some scholars hold that if his good deeds outweigh his bad deeds, he will be saved from the Fire, even if he has some sins.