Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) gave the key of Bait Ullah permanently to Hazrat?

The correct answer is Usman bin Talha.

The appointment of Hazrat Usman bin Talha (RA) as the permanent custodian of the key to the Bait Ullah (the Holy Kaaba) is one of the most profound examples of the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) dedication to "Amanah" or trust. This event occurred during the 8th year of Hijra (630 AD), following the bloodless Conquest of Makkah, a turning point that shifted the religious and political landscape of the Arabian Peninsula forever.

The Pre-Islamic Context of Sidanah

For generations before the advent of Islam, the duty of Sidanah (the guardianship and maintenance of the Kaaba) was held by the tribe of Banu Abd ad-Dar, a branch of the Quraish. Usman bin Talha belonged to the family of Bani Shaiba, who were the hereditary keepers of the key. Even in the pre-Islamic era, this was considered the highest honor in Makkah. It is recorded that before his conversion, Usman bin Talha once refused the Prophet (SAW) entry into the Kaaba. On that occasion, the Prophet (SAW) patiently remarked that one day the key would be in his hands, and he would give it to whomsoever he pleased. Usman had replied that the Quraish would have to be humiliated for that to happen, to which the Prophet (SAW) responded that it would actually be a day of true honor for them.

The Day of the Conquest

When the Prophet (SAW) entered Makkah as a conqueror, he requested the key to the Kaaba. Usman bin Talha had initially hidden on the roof of the building but eventually handed over the key. The Prophet (SAW) entered the Kaaba, cleared it of idols, and offered prayers inside. At this moment, many prominent companions, including Hazrat Ali (RA) and Hazrat Abbas (RA), expressed a desire to take over the guardianship of the key, hoping to combine the duties of providing water to pilgrims (Siqayah) with the guardianship of the door (Sidanah).

However, as the Prophet (SAW) exited the Kaaba, a specific revelation occurred. It is widely documented by historians that Verse 58 of Surah An-Nisa was revealed at this exact moment: "Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due..."

The Eternal Promise

Following this divine instruction, the Prophet (SAW) called for Usman bin Talha. Instead of keeping the authority for his own family or giving it to his closest companions, he returned the key to Usman. He famously declared: "Take it, O Bani Talha, eternally and permanently. None shall take it from you except a tyrant." This act was not just a restoration of property but a powerful statement on the continuity of justice.

By returning the key, the Prophet (SAW) demonstrated that Islam does not seek to strip people of their ancestral rights or honorable duties without cause. This gesture touched Usman bin Talha deeply, leading to a firm and renewed commitment to the faith.

 The Legacy of Bani Shaiba

Following the Prophet's (SAW) decree, the key has remained with the descendants of Usman bin Talha for over 1,400 years. To this day, the family known as the Bani Shaiba serves as the "Sadeen" of the Kaaba. Regardless of who the Caliph, Sultan, or King of the era was, they all respected the prophetic decree. Whenever the Kaaba needs to be opened for cleaning or for visiting dignitaries, the authorities must coordinate with the current head of the Bani Shaiba family. This living tradition stands as a testament to the Prophet’s (SAW) promise and the enduring nature of Islamic historical trusts.