Dumbledore gave Harry the Resurrection Stone primarily so he could gain the emotional strength and courage needed to face his own death and sacrifice himself for the greater good.
Dumbledore's Intent Behind the Gift
The Resurrection Stone was one of the three legendary Deathly Hallows, and Dumbledore possessed it for a time, initially driven by a desire to see his family. However, he later included it in his will for Harry, concealing it within the Golden Snitch he had given Harry years earlier.
Based on the reference provided, the core reason for this bequest was strategic and deeply personal for Harry's final mission:
- To See Loved Ones: The stone would allow Harry to briefly see and interact with those most important to him who had passed away.
- To Gain Courage: Seeing his deceased family and friends was intended to "steele himself with the courage" required for the monumental task ahead.
- For Sacrifice: The ultimate goal was to prepare Harry mentally and emotionally for the sacrifice he knew he had to make – giving his life "for everyone else's sake."
The Resurrection Stone's Purpose for Harry
Unlike its initial purpose as a Hallow – to recall the dead – Dumbledore's intention for Harry was not about living with spirits forever. It was a temporary comfort and a vital psychological boost at the moment Harry needed it most: just before he walked into the Forbidden Forest to confront Voldemort and allow the Killing Curse to strike him, thereby destroying the piece of Voldemort's soul within him.
Here's how the stone served its purpose for Harry:
- Emotional Support: It provided a moment of connection with his parents, Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin.
- Confirmation of Love: Their presence and words reinforced that they were with him and supported his decision.
- Strengthening Resolve: Their encouragement gave him the final push of courage to face death without fear.
The stone was not meant as a tool for battle or a permanent link to the dead, but a crucial element in Dumbledore's complex plan to equip Harry with every possible advantage, including emotional resilience, for his final, selfless act. Harry ultimately understood this, letting the stone fall in the forest, accepting his fate and the stone's temporary role in his journey.
