The name of Aragorn's ring was the Ring of Barahir.
Aragorn, a central figure in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, carried an ancient and significant heirloom: the Ring of Barahir. This ring was not merely an adornment but a powerful symbol of his lineage, connecting him directly to the ancient kings of Men and to the Elves.
The Legacy of the Ring of Barahir
The Ring of Barahir is an object steeped in the history of Middle-earth, predating even the forging of the Rings of Power. It served as a tangible link to Aragorn's noble heritage and his destiny.
Origins and Historical Significance
The Ring of Barahir was originally given to Barahir, a Man of the House of Bëor, by the Elven King Finrod Felagund as a token of friendship and aid. This gift came after Barahir saved Finrod's life during the Dagor Bragollach, one of the great battles of the First Age. The ring passed down through generations, becoming a treasured heirloom of the Houses of Bëor and eventually the House of Elros, which included the Kings of Númenor and later, the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, Aragorn's direct ancestors.
Key aspects of its significance include:
- Ancient Alliance: It symbolizes the enduring bond between Elves and Men, born from acts of courage and loyalty in the First Age.
- Royal Heirloom: The ring was preserved through countless ages, carefully passed down from father to son, representing the unbroken line of descent from the Kings of Númenor and a claim to the throne of Gondor.
- Proof of Identity: As Aragorn journeyed towards his destiny, the ring served as a subtle yet undeniable sign of his true identity. For instance, in the halls of Rohan, Gríma Wormtongue, Saruman's spy, immediately recognized the ring upon Aragorn's finger. Gríma, having studied its description, reported this significant find to Saruman, confirming Aragorn's true identity as the heir of Isildur.
Appearance and Symbolism
While its exact physical description is rarely elaborated upon, the Ring of Barahir is known for its distinctive design: two serpents with emerald eyes, one devouring, one crowned, forming a circlet with their heads and tails intertwined. This intricate design further highlights its ancient and mystical origins.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ring Name | Ring of Barahir |
| Primary Bearer | Aragorn Elessar |
| Origin | Gift from Finrod Felagund to Barahir (First Age) |
| Significance | Royal Heirloom, Symbol of Kingship and Ancient Alliances |
| Lineage Traced | House of Bëor, House of Elros, Kings of Númenor, Chieftains of the Dúnedain |
The Ring of Barahir is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a testament to Aragorn's heritage, a beacon of hope for the Free Peoples, and a symbol of the enduring strength of his bloodline. Its presence underscored his rightful claim to the throne and his role in the ultimate defeat of Sauron.
