and its skin; neither may be made into or used as a vessel, because it is inviolable by virtue of its sanctity (1). The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “Breaking the bone of a dead person is like breaking it while he is alive.” (2) Its chain of transmission is authentic.

His statement, “gold”: it is well known—the precious red metal to which people are attached, which they love and toward which they are inclined. Allah has placed an inclination toward gold in human nature. The same applies to silver, though it occupies a lesser place in people’s hearts than gold; hence, its prohibition is less severe than that of gold.

His statement, “except vessels of gold and silver”: this includes vessels both small and large, even a spoon and a knife.

And vessels plated with either of them: acquiring and using them are forbidden, even for a woman. …

His statement, “and vessels plated with either of them: acquiring and using them are forbidden, even for a woman”: a plating strip is that from which the term “plating” is derived. It is a strip that joins the two sides of a break. Thus, when a wooden dish broke, people would sew it back together—this was done in former times. Therefore, a vessel plated with either of them is forbidden, whether the plating is pure or alloyed, except for what has been exempted. The evidence is the hadith of Hudhayfah, may Allah be pleased with him: “Do not drink from vessels of gold and silver, nor eat from their dishes, for they are for them in this world and for you in the Hereafter.” (3)