Why Was Gimli Chosen to Go on the Fellowship?

Gimli, the Dwarf Who Joined the Fellowship

In The Lord of the Rings, the Fellowship of the Ring was a crucial group of characters tasked with a monumental responsibility: to destroy the One Ring. Among them was Gimli, a young Dwarf who played a vital role in this quest. But why was Gimli chosen to go on the Fellowship, and what made him an indispensable member?

Elrond's Choice

Elrond, the wise Lord of Rivendell, wisely decided to include a member from each of the free peoples of Middle-earth: Men, Hobbits, Elves, and Dwarves. At that time, there was a limited number of Dwarves in Rivendell, and Gloin, another notable Dwarf, was already elderly. Thus, the choice fell on Gimli, the son of Glóin and a representative of the Dwarves of Erebor.

Elrond explained that Gimli and Legolas, the Elf, had to cross the mountains to return home, and they agreed to join the Fellowship for as far as the passes would take them. Elrond didn't bind them or any member of the Fellowship to go beyond this point.

Gimli's Involvement in the Council

Gimli was present at the Council of Elrond, where the fate of the One Ring was decided. Gloin and Gimli had come to Rivendell to inform Elrond about Sauron's offer of friendship and the potential threat of destruction. They hoped for news of Balin, and it happened that the One Ring was in Rivendell at that moment. Elrond summoned all the free peoples to decide on the ring's fate, and Gimli was chosen to represent the Dwarves, much like Legolas represented the Elves.

Reasons Behind the Choice

1. Close to Erebor - As a representative of Erebor, Gimli was in the right place at the right time. With Legolas pledging to go on the quest, Gimli felt compelled to join as well. This ensured that Erebor was represented and that news of the One Ring's discovery could be conveyed back home.

2. Age Factor - While Gloin was too old for such a perilous quest, he was still in need of a messenger to return to Erebor and report on the situation. This ensured that the Dwarves were not caught off guard by Sauron's actions.

3. Strategic Representation - The Fellowship was charged with representing all the free peoples of Middle-earth, ensuring that the needs and fates of all walks of people were considered. Gimli's inclusion helped to provide a perspective from the world of Dwarves, which was crucial given their history with Sauron and their role in the eventual downfall of the Dark Lord.

To Conclude

Gimli's presence in the Fellowship was not merely a formality. He brought with him the wisdom and perhaps the grudges of the Dwarf realm, which would prove invaluable in the battle against Sauron. His companionship with Legolas also highlighted the idea of unity and cooperation between different races for a common cause.