The Torah commands in Parashat Ekeb (Debarim 7:25), “Lo Tahmod Kesef Ve’zahab Alehem Ve’lakahta Lach” – “Do not desire the silver and gold which is upon them [objects of pagan worship] and take them for yourselves.” This verse establishes a prohibition against benefitting from the plating on an object of pagan worship. If something is worshipped, then not only does that object become forbidden for benefit, but also the decorative plating becomes forbidden. This prohibition applies even to the plating on an object of worship which itself cannot become forbidden. If a pagan worships something which is connected to the ground – such as a mountain or a tree – the object of worship is not forbidden for benefit. However, if a pagan plates the tree he worships with gold, with example, then although the tree cannot become forbidden for benefit, the gold plating is forbidden. The reason behind this prohibition, quite obviously, is to distance people from idol worship. The Torah forbids deriving benefit even from materials used to adorn idols in order to ensure that we keep away from any form of foreign worship. This prohibition applies in all times and places, and is binding upon both men and women. One who derives even a small amount of benefit from the plating of an idol has transgressed this command and is liable to Malkut.