It is narrated from Hazrat Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: People are like hidden treasures (mines) of good and evil. Those among them who were the best in the time of ignorance are also the best in the time of Islam, provided they become learned in religion.
Hadith Referenceمسند احمد / مسند المكثرين من الصحابة / 10296
Hadith Gradingحکم دارالسلام:إسناده صحيح، أنظر ما قبله