Lessons from Hogwarts #5: the pure in heart

In the first Harry Potter book, Harry discovers the Mirror of Erised. When he looks in this mirror he sees, not his reflection, but his heart's deepest desire. Harry sees himself surrounded by his family, a family he has never known.

At the end of the story Harry comes face to face with the mirror again. The evil wizard Quirrell knows that the philosopher's stone is hidden in the mirror, but he cannot get at it. When he looks in the mirror he sees himself giving the stone to Voldemort, but he cannot see where it is. When Harry looks in the mirror he sees the location of the stone - in his own pocket - and prevents Voldemort from getting hold of it. Harry is able to locate the stone because his deepest desire is to find it; not to use it.

The philosopher's stone turns base metal into gold and can be used to give the bearer everlasting life. Most wizards in Harry's position would see themselves fabulously rich. But Harry is different. His heart is pure. 'Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God' (Matthew 5.8).

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