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The Keys of Heaven

The Keys of Heaven, often referred to as the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, are metaphorical keys associated with Saint Peter and are mentioned in the Bible, specifically in Matthew 16:19.

This passage states,

I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven; whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

This concept signifies the authority given to Peter and, by extension, the Church, to make binding decisions in spiritual matters. The keys symbolize access to heaven and the power to govern the Church.

According to Catholic teaching, Jesus promised the keys to heaven to Saint Peter, empowering him to take binding actions. These "Keys of Heaven" or "Keys of Saint Peter" were seen as a symbol of authority which translayed to Papal Authority and are seen on all papal coats of arms of individual popes and those of the Holy See and Vatican City State:

"Behold he [Peter] received the keys of the kingdom of heaven, the power of binding and loosing is committed to him, the care of the whole Church and its government is given to him".

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