[Q 289] Destiny of Non-Muslim Minors Afterlife

Question

Dear islamic scholars can you please tell us what our beliefs should be in regards to na baligh kids of non believers who pass away. Do they also get azaab of qabar and will be thrown in the hell fire on the day of judgement?

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

الجواب بعون الملك الوهاب اللهم هداية الحق والصواب

Answer

Scholars have multiple opinions regarding the fate of the children of non-believers in the hereafter.

One opinion is that since these children of non-believers passed away before becoming mukallaf (i.e., the age at which the adherence to Islamic injunctions becomes obligatory), they will enter Paradise.

Another opinion states that these children will follow their parents into Hell.

A third opinion is that they will serve the inhabitants of Paradise.

A fourth opinion places them at A’raf, which is a location between Paradise and Hell.

Moreover, a group of scholars (including Imam-e-Azam) have chosen to remain silent on their outcome, stating that Allah Almighty and the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم know best. This is considered the most appropriate view.

There are also other opinions on this matter.

Answered by: Mubashir Attari (AskMufti Scholar)

Verified by:  Mufti Sajid Attari

Date: 16th May 2024