The Myth of Erebor's Secret Door: Uncovering the Truth Behind a Dwarven Mystery

In the Legends of Middle-earth by J.R.R. Tolkien, the secret door in Erebor is a topic of fascination among fans of the fantasy realm. A common myth suggests that Thror and Thrain used the secret door to escape the mountain from the inside before the arrival of Smaug. However, the truth behind the secret door is different from this commonly held belief.

Thror and Thrain's Exile and Escape

It is a well-known fact that Thror and Thrain did not escape Smaug from the inside of the mountain. Instead, they fled Erebor long before Smaug's reign of terror began. Thror was killed by Smaug, and Thrain was captured while attempting to reclaim their homeland. Subsequently, Thrain managed to escape from the dungeons of the powerful dark lord, Sauron, but could not return to the sacked city of Erebor.

The Secret Door and Its Significance

The secret door, with its unique mechanism, is important for the eventual return of the dwarves to their home. This door is marked by its magical properties: it can only be opened from the outside using a special key at a specific time. While this limitation might seem like a significant obstacle, the actual mechanism of the door is multifaceted. On the inside, the door can be pushed open without the key. This feature is often overlooked by fans, prompting questions about how the door functions.

Clues and Speculations

Due to Smaug’s relentless attacks, the dwarves’ secrets, including those related to the secret door, were lost. At Elrond's house, Gloin mentions that the dwarves of Erebor could no longer work metal with the same skill as their ancestors. Despite these losses, it is possible that the door could be pushed open from the inside, though it can only be safely activated from the outside with a special key at a specific time.

The Truth Revealed

The door's mechanism raises intriguing questions. How could Smaug's attacks have rendered the secret passage difficult to access without explaining how Thror and Thrain could have used it effectively? The door's design, easily accessible from the inside, suggests it was propped open, perhaps with a latch or lever, to allow passage. Once Thror and Thrain closed the door, it remained secure until the next Durin's Day, the dwarven New Year, due to its magical properties.

The secret door in Erebor, much like the West-door in Moria, is a testament to the ingenuity of dwarven craftsmanship. It serves as a symbol of hope and a means of return for the dwarves of Erebor, rather than a method for quick exit during times of peril.

While the Legends of Middle-earth provide rich and detailed stories, the true nature of Erebor's secret door invites further exploration and speculation. Its mysterious enigma remains a cherished element of the epic tale, leaving a lasting impression on the legacy of J.R.R. Tolkien's works.