Is the finder obligated to compensate the owner after consuming a lost sheep?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Lost-and-Found Property
Primary text
The finder is obligated to compensate the owner for the full value of the sheep if he consumes it. This obligation arises because the sheep remains the property of the owner, and consuming it constitutes destruction of property that must be compensated, similar to lost gold. The statement "It is for you" does not negate the obligation of compensation, as it is also used regarding lost gold and silver after announcement, where compensation is still required.
Supporting text
Malik maintains that no compensation is due because the Prophet's statement, "It is for you," implies full ownership transfer to the finder, just as a wolf would claim it without obligation.