Al-Zuheiriya Mosque was established more than a century ago and retains several elements of its early construction. Its caretaker and muezzin, Abdul Nasser Luqman, said the original lock has never been replaced and still functions with its sole key.
“The lock mounted on the door is the same one since the mosque was founded 125 years ago and has never been replaced”, Luqman told 964media. “It still works perfectly”.
The original key was nearly a meter long, but Luqman said he shortened it to make it easier to carry. “It is still long and usable today”, he said.
The door itself was crafted from local wood using traditional methods. “The door reflects the craftsmanship of early builders who lacked modern tools and materials”, Luqman said, adding that the engraved name of Imam Ali gives the entrance spiritual significance.
Although the mosque was reconstructed in 1988 using brick instead of mud, Luqman said the gate remained untouched. “The gate remained unchanged”, he said.
He also recalled incidents where worshippers were accidentally locked inside. “Sometimes after prayers, the door is shut from outside, and some worshippers get locked in. They call me or send someone to my home to get the only key”, he said.
Luqman began attending the mosque in 1993 and assumed the role of muezzin after 2005, receiving a formal appointment in 2007. A muezzin is responsible for calling Muslims to prayer, traditionally from a minaret.
He said the mosque draws its largest crowds during Ramadan. “The busiest times are for Maghrib, Isha, and Taraweeh prayers,” Luqman said. “We spread out the iftar meal in the mosque courtyard for residents and passersby”.
