When Albus Dumbledore died, he left Harry Potter the Golden Snitch he caught in his very first Quidditch game, which contained a crucial final message and an object essential for defeating Lord Voldemort.
Dumbledore's will was read by Rufus Scrimgeour, the Minister for Magic, approximately a month after Dumbledore's death. This event saw the distribution of specific, carefully chosen items to Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger, each piece playing a vital role in their ultimate quest.
The Golden Snitch: A Final Riddle
The Golden Snitch bequeathed to Harry was no ordinary keepsake. It was the very Snitch Harry had caught in his first-ever Quidditch match as a Seeker, a game against Slytherin, which he famously almost swallowed. Dumbledore, with his characteristic foresight, had enchanted this particular Snitch to reveal a hidden message only when Harry was "at the close."
Upon its opening, activated by Harry's lips touching it, the Snitch released the Resurrection Stone, one of the three legendary Deathly Hallows. This stone allowed Harry to summon the spirits of his loved ones—his parents, Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin—before his final confrontation with Voldemort, providing him with comfort and courage.
Significance of the Bequest
Dumbledore's choice of the Golden Snitch was deeply symbolic and practical:
- Personal Connection: It tied back to Harry's early triumphs and his innate talent for Quidditch, reminding him of his strengths.
- The Resurrection Stone: This Hallow was integral to Harry's role as the master of death, allowing him to accept his fate and face Voldemort with resolve.
- Timing: Dumbledore ensured Harry would receive this crucial item when the time was right for its revelation, following his intricate plan.
Other Inheritances from Dumbledore's Will
Dumbledore's will also provided significant items to Harry's closest friends, each chosen with a purpose:
| Beneficiary | Item Inherited | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter | The Golden Snitch (containing the Resurrection Stone) | Provided comfort, courage, and a key Deathly Hallow for his final confrontation. |
| Hermione Granger | The Tales of Beedle the Bard | A collection of wizarding fairy tales, one of which contained crucial information about the Deathly Hallows. |
| Ron Weasley | The Deluminator (formerly known as a Put-Outer) | An enchanted device that could capture lights and, more importantly, guide Ron back to his friends. |
Each item was a piece of Dumbledore's elaborate plan to equip the trio with the tools and knowledge necessary to defeat Voldemort and restore peace to the wizarding world. His bequests showcased his profound understanding of their individual needs and the overarching mission.
For more information on the magical items mentioned, you can visit the Harry Potter Wiki or the official Wizarding World website.
