What is the legal ruling on stealing ice (thalj)?
Chapter on Amputation in Theft
Al-Mughni
Book of Ḥudūd (Prescribed Penalties)
Primary text
The ruling on stealing ice presents a divergence of opinion. The Qadi states that ice is like water because it is frozen water, thus resembling hail (jalid). However, the stronger opinion suggests it is analogous to salt because it is customarily possessed as property, treating it like solidified salt derived from water.
Supporting text
The view suggesting ice is like water is based on its nature as frozen water. The opposing view classifies it as analogous to salt because it is customarily treated as property.