Where Did Bilbo Baggins Wear the Ring? Exploring Bilbo’s Use of the One Ring in Middle-earth

Bilbo Baggins' possession of the One Ring is a pivotal plot point in the beloved works by J.R.R. Tolkien. In the book 'The Hobbit' and the movie 'The Desolation of Smaug', we learn about various occasions where Bilbo used the ring. Let's explore the places and reasons behind Bilbo's use of the One Ring.

Places Where Bilbo Used the Ring

In the Shire, Bilbo often used the ring to hide from the Sackville-Bagginses. This was particularly important as he was living there to avoid them. Additionally, Bilbo used the ring when he fought spiders in Mirkwood forest during his quest to the Lonely Mountain. One notable instance occurred at Bilbo's birthday party, where he had to leave the Shire when he turned 111 years old. The ring was instrumental in escaping unwanted guests and hiding from the Sackville-Bagginses.

Use of the Ring in Middle-earth

Bilbo used the ring in various situations throughout his travels. In the goblin tunnels, he accidentally tried it on and managed to get past Balin. This was a critical moment that helped him navigate the dangerous environment. Additionally, Bilbo used the ring to escape from and attack the spiders in Mirkwood. He also hid in the Elvenking's fortress and used it to explore Smaug's lair multiple times. Moreover, he wore the ring during the battle of the Five Armies and on several occasions to avoid people he did not want to see, such as the Sackville-Bagginses.

The Riddle Game and Divine Intervention

One of the most fascinating moments in the story is the "Riddle Game": "What has its pockets and what has pockets too?" This riddle was a nod to the One Ring, as it described having pockets. This detail was so significant that it hinted at the ring's will and the fact that it could change in size, leading it to slip off of Isildur's hand and later Gollum's. This exact behavior had traditional explanations involving divine intervention or the will of the ring itself.

Commonly among Tolkien enthusiasts, the idea that something divine was involved in the preservation of the ring is widely accepted. The ring lying in the river Anduin for a time and being found by the unsuspecting Bilbo Baggins is seen as a piece of divine intervention. Bilbo happened to be the heir of Isildur and, through a series of coincidences, met and defeated Gollum. Was this all just coincidence? It certainly stretches the limits of belief.

Furthermore, the ring's ability to preserve Bilbo from losing it despite his casual handling suggests divine protection. Could this have been the work of the Valar or even the ring itself?

It's clear that the casual way Bilbo carried the ring, never losing it, supports the idea that something was watching over him. Bilbo's possession of the One Ring, especially in such an uneventful manner, lends strong support to the notion that something divine was indeed involved in his journey.

Conclusion

The use of the One Ring by Bilbo Baggins throughout his adventures in Middle-earth is a fascinating aspect of Tolkien's works. From hiding in the Shire to exploring Smaug's lair, the ring played a crucial role in Bilbo's journey. The casual nature of his handling of the ring and his ability to retain it supports the theory of divine intervention, making the story of Bilbo Baggins' adventure an even more intriguing read.