What is the ruling on continuing the use of prohibited gold or silver overlaying if it becomes completely consumed?
Chapter on Zakat on Gold and Silver
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
If the overlaying material on a roof becomes completely consumed such that nothing can be gathered from it, its continued use is not prohibited because its destruction or removal serves no purpose. Moreover, Zakah is not due on it because its monetary value has been lost. If its monetary value remains and it is not consumed, its continued use remains prohibited.
Supporting text
It was reported that 'Umar ibn 'Abd al-'Aziz, upon assuming office, intended to gather the gold overlaying the mosque of Damascus, but upon being informed that nothing could be collected from it, he refrained. Similarly, if prohibited ornamentation is dedicated (waqf) to a mosque or similar institution, the dedication is invalid because it is neither righteous nor commendable. Instead, it is treated like charity, broken down, and its proceeds are used for the mosque's welfare and construction.