Locks have been made in Iran since at least the second millennium BCE. With the rise of the Safavids (1501-1722) to power, there was a major evolution in lock making. The Safavids' love of steel arms and other steel implements encouraged locksmiths to use this metal for locks, which were previously made of bronze and brass.

Besides providing security, locks are important for Shiʿite Muslims. Locks on the doors of holy places such as shrines, public water fountain (saqqāḵānas), and mosques, especially those on the transenna or grillwork (żariḥ) enclosing the tomb of Imam Reżā in Mashad, are believed to have special power. Pilgrims grasp the tomb lock and make vows and seek help from the Imam. Some pilgrims bring their own locks as a symbolic reminder and fasten them to the grillwork around the tomb. By attaching the locks to the grill, they believe the holy shrine will unlock (resolve) their problems.