Is a vile Muslim better than a pious Kafir?

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Question:



Is a vile Muslim better than a pious Kafir?
[*]What is the criteria for people who do not hear the message?
[*]Is a vile Muslim better than a pious person from amongst those who havn't heard the message?
[*]Can those who haven't heard the message enter jannah? If so, does this mean that the majority of the folk of jannah will be of them?

Answer:



Walaikum assalam,


What is a vile [= ‘morally reprehensible’ – WordWeb] person, in terms of the Shariah? They are sinful.


A sinful believer is liable for temporary (even if often long and painful) punishment in Hell for his sin, unless he repents. Ultimately, though, they are of the people of Heaven.

A kafir, though, is liable for enter Hell eternally: if the message of Islam reached them in a sound and well-presented way, this is their fate. Otherwise, Allah knows best.


In general, those who the message of Islam has not reached in a sound and well-presented way will not be punished by Hell. As to the specifics of their fate, we leave it to Allah; it is not our duty. Our duty is to convey the truth, so people may be guided to that which is best for them in this life and the next.

As for a pious person [= ‘having or showing or expressing reverence for a deity’ – WordWeb] who is non-Muslim compared to a ‘vile’ Muslim: there is no sin more serious than associating partners with Allah, and no sin more serious, as Allah and His Messenger (Allah bless him & give him peace) have informed us.


And Allah alone gives success.



Walaikum assalam, Faraz Rabbani