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Madinah Rawdah Al Sharifah Ottoman Era Lock & Key
During the Ottoman era, especially between the 16th to early 20th centuries, the custodianship of the Haramayn (Makkah & Madinah) was held with immense honour. Lock and key sets were crafted with exceptional care for the doors of the Rawdah, Bab al-Tawbah, or inner sacred chambers of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi Verse of Salawat upon the Prophet (peace be upon him)
Arabic
إِنَّ اللَّهَ وَمَلَائِكَتَهُ يُصَلُّونَ عَلَى النَّبِيِّ ۚ يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا صَلُّوا عَلَيْهِ وَسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا
English Translation
Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, send blessings upon him and greet him with peace
Surah Al-Ahzab (33)
Ayah 56
(Surah 33:56)
Verse about those who offend Allah and His Messenger
Arabic
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ يُؤْذُونَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ لَعَنَهُمُ اللَّهُ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُمْ عَذَابًا مُّهِينًا
English Translation
Indeed, those who harm Allah and His Messenger—Allah has cursed them in this world and the Hereafter and prepared for them a humiliating punishment
Surah & Ayah:
Surah Al-Ahzab (33)
Ayah 57
(Surah 33:57)
These two verses are consecutive and appear in Surah Al-Ahzab, which focuses heavily on the status of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), respect toward him, and the etiquette of the believers
Primary Metals
Brass
Bronze
Occasionally copper and iron cores
Inlaid with silver or gold plating (gilding) on inscriptions or borders
High-quality Ottoman steel craftsmanship for functional durability
Heavyweight construction: Designed not just for utility but for durability and security of sacred entrances
Keys often had decorative bow handles shaped with Islamic floral motifs or tughra-style emblems of the sultan
Calligraphy – Thuluth Script
The inscriptions were engraved using classical Thuluth (ثلث), a script known for its elegance and elongated verticals.
Common inscriptions
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم (In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
يا الله، يا رحمن، يا رحيم (O Allah, O Most Merciful, O Most Compassionate)
Hand-chiselled engraving: Artisans would etch intricate designs into the metal surface, often using chasing and repoussé techniques.
Ottoman floral and vegetal patterns, such as tulips, roses, and arabesques, were used to frame or highlight inscriptions
Arabic
إِنَّ اللَّهَ وَمَلَائِكَتَهُ يُصَلُّونَ عَلَى النَّبِيِّ ۚ يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا صَلُّوا عَلَيْهِ وَسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا
English Translation
Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, send blessings upon him and greet him with peace
Surah Al-Ahzab (33)
Ayah 56
(Surah 33:56)
Verse about those who offend Allah and His Messenger
Arabic
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ يُؤْذُونَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ لَعَنَهُمُ اللَّهُ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُمْ عَذَابًا مُّهِينًا
English Translation
Indeed, those who harm Allah and His Messenger—Allah has cursed them in this world and the Hereafter and prepared for them a humiliating punishment
Surah & Ayah:
Surah Al-Ahzab (33)
Ayah 57
(Surah 33:57)
These two verses are consecutive and appear in Surah Al-Ahzab, which focuses heavily on the status of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), respect toward him, and the etiquette of the believers
Primary Metals
Brass
Bronze
Occasionally copper and iron cores
Inlaid with silver or gold plating (gilding) on inscriptions or borders
High-quality Ottoman steel craftsmanship for functional durability
Heavyweight construction: Designed not just for utility but for durability and security of sacred entrances
Keys often had decorative bow handles shaped with Islamic floral motifs or tughra-style emblems of the sultan
Calligraphy – Thuluth Script
The inscriptions were engraved using classical Thuluth (ثلث), a script known for its elegance and elongated verticals.
Common inscriptions
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم (In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
يا الله، يا رحمن، يا رحيم (O Allah, O Most Merciful, O Most Compassionate)
Hand-chiselled engraving: Artisans would etch intricate designs into the metal surface, often using chasing and repoussé techniques.
Ottoman floral and vegetal patterns, such as tulips, roses, and arabesques, were used to frame or highlight inscriptions
Madinah Rawdah Al Sharifah Lock & Key 1399-1411 Hijri (1979 - 1990 CE
The lock and key of the Rawdah, crafted in the year 1399 - 1411 Hijri (1979 - 1990 CE), is a remarkable artefact of Islamic history, combining masterful craftsmanship with profound spiritual meaning
This lock, used for securing the Rawdah Al-Mutahharah (the area encompassing
the Prophet Muhammad ’s tomb), carries not only functional importance
but also poetic expressions that reflect its sacred purpose.
The key that accompanies the lock is similarly adorned, showcasing calligraphy and patterns consistent with Ottoman artistry, as the 1399 - 1411 Hijri period falls within the later Ottoman Caliphate
Front Side
Arabic
هو الحبيبُ الذي تُرجى شفاعتُهُ
لكلِّ هولٍ منَ الأهوالِ مُقتَحَم
English
He is the Beloved whose intercession
is hoped for, to remove all calamities
and adversities.
This is a line from the famous Arabic poem
Qasida Al-Burda by Imam Al-Busiri,
in praise of the Prophet Muhammad
(peace be upon him), emphasizing his
role as an intercessor and source of mercy
Rear Side
َحَاشَاهُ أَنْ يُرَدَّ الرَّاجِيَ كَرَمَهُ
أَوْ يُرَدَّ الْجَارُ مِنْهُ غَيْرَ مُكْرَم
Far be it that the one who hopes for his
generosity is denied, Or that a neighbour
returns from him without him without
being fulfilled
This lock, used for securing the Rawdah Al-Mutahharah (the area encompassing
the Prophet Muhammad ’s tomb), carries not only functional importance
but also poetic expressions that reflect its sacred purpose.
The key that accompanies the lock is similarly adorned, showcasing calligraphy and patterns consistent with Ottoman artistry, as the 1399 - 1411 Hijri period falls within the later Ottoman Caliphate
Front Side
Arabic
هو الحبيبُ الذي تُرجى شفاعتُهُ
لكلِّ هولٍ منَ الأهوالِ مُقتَحَم
English
He is the Beloved whose intercession
is hoped for, to remove all calamities
and adversities.
This is a line from the famous Arabic poem
Qasida Al-Burda by Imam Al-Busiri,
in praise of the Prophet Muhammad
(peace be upon him), emphasizing his
role as an intercessor and source of mercy
Rear Side
َحَاشَاهُ أَنْ يُرَدَّ الرَّاجِيَ كَرَمَهُ
أَوْ يُرَدَّ الْجَارُ مِنْهُ غَيْرَ مُكْرَم
Far be it that the one who hopes for his
generosity is denied, Or that a neighbour
returns from him without him without
being fulfilled
Holy Kaaba Door Lock & Key 1399 Hijri
The Kaaba door lock is an iconic and revered artefact associated with one of Islams holiest sites
This lock is part of the symbolic security of the Kaaba, located within the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
The lock itself is black, with a prominent gold plate at the front, engraved with the names “Sanafi Fahad Bin Abdul Azeez” “Al Saud”, and “Sana’a”, marking its creation in the year 1399 Hijri (1979 CE). These inscriptions honor the individuals and institutions responsible for its design and production
The lock, made in 1399AH, is styled in the same fashion as the lock used during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hameed. It was however, modified to be more durable so that it needs no further repairs
“This has been manufactured in 1399AH during the reign of Saudi King Khalid bin Abdul Azeez”
The Key keeper of the Kaaba (Arabic; سدانة الكعبة; “Sadanah al-Kaaba”) is a venerable profession tasked with the care and management of the Kaaba and its affairs. This role encompasses a range of duties, including; opening and closing the Kaaba, maintaining its cleanliness, performing rituals such as washing and covering it, repairing any damage to its covering, welcoming visitors, and overseeing all related tasks
Arabic Text
سَنَفِي فهد بن عبد العزيز آل سعود، صنع سنة ١٣٩٩ ه
English Translation
This has been manufactured in 1399 Hijri during the reign of Saudi King Fahad Bin Abdul Azeez
Maqaam - E - Ibrahim Key 741 Hijri / 1340 CE
A 741 Hijri / 1340 CE-year-old key to the Maqam Ibrahim is a rare and sacred artefact, representing not just historical craftsmanship, but also a deep spiritual connection to the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (Ibrahim AS, peace be upon him), the building of the Kaaba, and the earliest rites of Islamic worship
What is Maqam Ibrahim?
Maqam Ibrahim (The Station of Abraham) refers to the stone that bears the footprints of Prophet Ibrahim, preserved in a golden and glass enclosure near the Holy Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. According to Islamic tradition, when Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son Isma'il (peace be upon him) were building the Kaaba, Ibrahim stood on this stone as he raised the walls. Miraculously, his footprints were imprinted into the stone, and it was preserved as a symbol of his labour and servitude to Allah SWT
Allah mentions Maqam Ibrahim in the Qur’an
وَاتَّخِذُوا مِن مَّقَامِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ مُصَلًّى
“And take, [O believers], from the standing place of Abraham a place of prayer.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:125)
It became a station of prayer, honour, and sacred history—directly linked to the origin of Tawheed (monotheism) and Hajj.
The Maqam Ibrahim Key – A 741-Year-Old Artefact
This particular key, dating back approximately 741 years / 1340 CE, during the Mamluk era, when Egypt and the Hijaz were under the rule of Sultan Al-Mansur Qalawun
The key was likely made from bronze, brass, or copper, engraved with Qur’anic verses, blessings, and symbolic motifs.
It may include geometric patterns, floral arabesques, and calligraphy indicating its sacred use and the authority of the reigning sultan.
1. Symbol of Authority and Access
The key to Maqam Ibrahim was not used by the public. It was held by custodians or appointed guards, symbolising divinely sanctioned authority to maintain and protect one of Islam’s most sacred relics.
2. Historical Witness
A 741-year-old key is a silent witness to over seven centuries of Islamic devotion, standing through generations of Hajj pilgrims, custodial dynasties, and even the rise and fall of empires.
3. Artisan Legacy
The craftsmanship represents a unique blend of Mamluk artistry, Islamic symbolism, and deep reverence—crafted not just as a tool, but as a sacred relic.
4. Spiritual Connection
Possessing or viewing such a key connects the heart to the legacy of Ibrahim, the builder of the Kaaba, and the father of the Prophets, making it a profound reminder of faith, patience, and submission to Allah.
A Living Legacy
Today, such a key stands as a timeless artefact of devotion, crafted in a golden era of Islamic history and tied directly to the story of Ibrahim (peace be upon him), whose footprints are preserved for all of humanity to witness and honour. It reminds us that in every lock of the sacred, there was once a key held in trust—handed down through generations, not just as metal, but as a symbol of duty and divine connection.
At the heart of its design are the words from Surah Al-Fath, a revered chapter in the Quraan. On one side of the key is the inscription of the powerful
verse, (“Indeed, We have granted you a clear conquest”), marking a divine moment of triumph
Quranic Ayaats & Translations
إِنَّا فَتَحْنَا لَكَ فَتْحًا مُّبِينًا
“Indeed, We have given you a clear conquest.”
لِّيَغْفِرَ لَكَ اللَّهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِن ذَنبِكَ وَمَا تَأَخَّرَ وَيُتِمَّ نِعْمَتَهُ عَلَيْكَ وَيَهْدِيَكَ صِرَاطًا مُّسْتَقِيمًا
“That Allah may forgive for you what preceded of your sin and what will follow, and complete His favor upon you and guide you to a straight path.
وَيَنصُرَكَ اللَّهُ نَصْرًا عَزِيزًا
“And that Allah may aid you with a mighty victory.”
هُوَ الَّذِي أَنزَلَ السَّكِينَةَ فِي قُلُوبِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ لِيَزْدَادُوا إِيمَانًا مَّعَ إِيمَانِهِمْ وَلِلَّهِ جُنُودُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ عَلِيمًا حَكِيمًا
“It is He who sent down tranquility into the hearts of the believers that they would increase in faith along with their faith. And to Allah belong the soldiers of the heavens and the earth. And ever is Allah Knowing and Wise.”
Surah Al - Fath (48:1) - (48:4)
Maqaam - E - Ibrahim Key 741 Hijri / 1340 CE
What is Maqam Ibrahim?
Maqam Ibrahim (The Station of Abraham) refers to the stone that bears the footprints of Prophet Ibrahim, preserved in a golden and glass enclosure near the Holy Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. According to Islamic tradition, when Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son Isma'il (peace be upon him) were building the Kaaba, Ibrahim stood on this stone as he raised the walls. Miraculously, his footprints were imprinted into the stone, and it was preserved as a symbol of his labour and servitude to Allah SWT
Allah mentions Maqam Ibrahim in the Qur’an
وَاتَّخِذُوا مِن مَّقَامِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ مُصَلًّى
“And take, [O believers], from the standing place of Abraham a place of prayer.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:125)
It became a station of prayer, honour, and sacred history—directly linked to the origin of Tawheed (monotheism) and Hajj.
The Maqam Ibrahim Key – A 741-Year-Old Artefact
This particular key, dating back approximately 741 years / 1340 CE, during the Mamluk era, when Egypt and the Hijaz were under the rule of Sultan Al-Mansur Qalawun
The key was likely made from bronze, brass, or copper, engraved with Qur’anic verses, blessings, and symbolic motifs.
It may include geometric patterns, floral arabesques, and calligraphy indicating its sacred use and the authority of the reigning sultan.
1. Symbol of Authority and Access
The key to Maqam Ibrahim was not used by the public. It was held by custodians or appointed guards, symbolising divinely sanctioned authority to maintain and protect one of Islam’s most sacred relics.
2. Historical Witness
A 741-year-old key is a silent witness to over seven centuries of Islamic devotion, standing through generations of Hajj pilgrims, custodial dynasties, and even the rise and fall of empires.
3. Artisan Legacy
The craftsmanship represents a unique blend of Mamluk artistry, Islamic symbolism, and deep reverence—crafted not just as a tool, but as a sacred relic.
4. Spiritual Connection
Possessing or viewing such a key connects the heart to the legacy of Ibrahim, the builder of the Kaaba, and the father of the Prophets, making it a profound reminder of faith, patience, and submission to Allah.
A Living Legacy
Today, such a key stands as a timeless artefact of devotion, crafted in a golden era of Islamic history and tied directly to the story of Ibrahim (peace be upon him), whose footprints are preserved for all of humanity to witness and honour. It reminds us that in every lock of the sacred, there was once a key held in trust—handed down through generations, not just as metal, but as a symbol of duty and divine connection.
At the heart of its design are the words from Surah Al-Fath, a revered chapter in the Quraan. On one side of the key is the inscription of the powerful
verse, (“Indeed, We have granted you a clear conquest”), marking a divine moment of triumph
Quranic Ayaats & Translations
إِنَّا فَتَحْنَا لَكَ فَتْحًا مُّبِينًا
“Indeed, We have given you a clear conquest.”
لِّيَغْفِرَ لَكَ اللَّهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِن ذَنبِكَ وَمَا تَأَخَّرَ وَيُتِمَّ نِعْمَتَهُ عَلَيْكَ وَيَهْدِيَكَ صِرَاطًا مُّسْتَقِيمًا
“That Allah may forgive for you what preceded of your sin and what will follow, and complete His favor upon you and guide you to a straight path.
وَيَنصُرَكَ اللَّهُ نَصْرًا عَزِيزًا
“And that Allah may aid you with a mighty victory.”
هُوَ الَّذِي أَنزَلَ السَّكِينَةَ فِي قُلُوبِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ لِيَزْدَادُوا إِيمَانًا مَّعَ إِيمَانِهِمْ وَلِلَّهِ جُنُودُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ عَلِيمًا حَكِيمًا
“It is He who sent down tranquility into the hearts of the believers that they would increase in faith along with their faith. And to Allah belong the soldiers of the heavens and the earth. And ever is Allah Knowing and Wise.”
Surah Al - Fath (48:1) - (48:4)
Maqaam - E - Ibrahim Key 741 Hijri / 1340 CE
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