The ruling regarding a father taking and spending from his daughter's dowry (mahr).
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Gifts and Donations
Primary text
If a father takes a portion of his daughter's dowry and spends it, he owes nothing back for what he spent. This expenditure is taken as evidence of his intent to assume full ownership, thus establishing his ownership over that amount taken. Furthermore, the dowry itself, if any specific portion remains intact, must be returned to the daughter.
Supporting text
Some scholars interpret Ahmad's statement to mean that the father took the money with the intention of ownership, which solidifies his ownership upon taking it.