A key is a symbol of authority. The crossed keys in the papal emblem refer to Christ's promise to St. Peter in Mt. 16:19 ("I will give you the keys to 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"). The silver key is said to signify the Pope's authority to bind on earth, while the gold key is said to signify his power to bind in heaven.

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'Quick Help' Page: What Do The Keys In The Papal Emblem Refer To?

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