Using an Etrog Hung in the Sukkah for Decoration
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Question
A person bought two kosher etrogs: one to use for the mitzvah and the other to hang in the sukkah for decoration. During the holiday, the etrog designated for the mitzvah became invalid. Is it permissible to take down the etrog hung for sukkah decoration and use it for the mitzvah? Or, since the sukkah decoration is set aside and prohibited for use until the end of the holiday, is it forbidden to use it for the mitzvah?
Answer
It is permissible to take down the etrog hung for decoration and fulfill the mitzvah with it, because 'mitzvot were not given for personal enjoyment' - a mitzvah is not considered personal enjoyment, and it is not considered using the etrog for personal needs.
Source
Biur Halacha, Siman 638, citing Chatam Sofer, Orach Chaim 284