What is a 'non-believer' or 'pagan'?

In Islamic terminology, a 'non-believer' or 'pagan' refers to someone who does not accept or practice the fundamental tenets of Islam or worships other deities. The Qur'an provides insights into the characteristics of such individuals. For instance, it describes those who do not fulfill their religious obligations and do not believe in the afterlife as disbelievers: Who give not the poor-due, and who are disbelievers in the Hereafter. 41:7. This verse emphasizes the connection between the failure to perform acts of charity and the rejection of faith in the afterlife, which are core elements of Islamic belief.

Additionally, in Shia tradition, it is noted that disbelief is considered more severe than polytheism. Al-Kafi mentions, By God, disbelief precedes polytheism in both precedence and severity. He mentioned the disbelief of Iblis when God commanded him to prostrate to Adam, and he refused. Disbelief is graver than polytheism. Whoever chooses to oppose God Almighty, refuses obedience, and persists in major sins is a disbeliever. Whoever establishes a religion other than the religion of the believers is a polytheist. Al-Kafi 1:1394ShiaHasan كالSahih. This highlights the grave implications of disbelief and its foundational place in rejecting God's commands.

In summary, non-believers or pagans are seen as those who either reject the core beliefs of Islam or follow other forms of worship that do not align with Islamic teachings.