Maintaining relationships with hereticals and polytheists
Maintaining relationships with hereticals and polytheists
Question: Is there any reward or punishment in doing a favor for a heretical or polytheist, or in treating them with good manners and kindness? It seems that being kind and courteous may have some benefits, such as guidance and advice, whereas being harsh and rude may not have any benefits. Also, is attending the funeral of a heretical meant to participate in the burial and funeral rites, or just to accompany the funeral procession? If one does not attend the funeral of a heretical, will they be rewarded?
Answer: Whoever abstains from something due to a sin will receive more reward, and whoever abstains due to criticism, obligation, or other reasons will not receive the reward of service, but will at least be saved from sin.
(Jami'-ul-Fatawa, Volume: 3, Page: 318).