The key to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is an object of profound historical and religious significance, closely tied to the Nusseibeh family's custodianship. The church, located in Jerusalem's Old City, is one of Christianity's holiest sites, believed to encompass the locations of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

Historical Significance:

The key to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is not merely a physical object but a symbol of the complex interplay between different Christian denominations that have vied for control over the sacred site. The church has been a focal point of religious and political tension for centuries, with various Christian sects and authorities competing for its management and access.

Custodianship:

The Nusseibeh family has been the traditional custodians of the key since the 7th century. This role was established during the early Islamic period when the Muslim caliphate controlled Jerusalem. The Nusseibehs were entrusted with the responsibility of managing access to the church, a task they performed with a great sense of duty and honor. Their custodianship is part of a broader tradition where local Muslim families were assigned roles in maintaining Christian sites under Islamic rule.

Symbolism and Function:

The key itself is a large, ornate brass object, often described as having an elaborate design. It is symbolic of the family's longstanding role in safeguarding the church and facilitating access to it. Historically, the key was used to unlock the church each morning and lock it at the end of the day, ensuring that only authorized individuals could enter. Today, its symbolic value far outweighs its practical function, representing the continuity and endurance of the Nusseibeh family's role through centuries of change.

Modern Context:

In contemporary times, the key remains a powerful symbol of interfaith cooperation and the Nusseibeh family's enduring legacy. Despite the complex political and religious landscape of Jerusalem, the Nusseibeh family continues to hold this role, underscoring their deep-rooted connection to the city's history and religious heritage.

The key is more than a simple object; it embodies the rich tapestry of Jerusalem's religious history and the Nusseibeh family's enduring commitment to preserving a crucial piece of that heritage.