Help me understand the importance of the prophecy, please

[hermionegallo]

No: HPFGUIDX 82166


We don't know for sure that prophecy applies just to Harry, despite 
what DD says. I think by the time the final conflict rolls around, 
Voldemort could mockingly acknowldege Neville as an equal, or there 
could be a dark horse candidate out there.

A boy

...born in the seventh month (This does not have to mean the 7th 
month of the year. It could mean the 7th month of a Lunar calendar or 
seven months after V becomes pupamort. )

...whom Voldemort acknowledges as an equal. (This condition is easily 
satisfied. One good mocking from Voldemort, and it's taken care of.)

...whose parents defied him three times. (We know that the Potters 
and the Longbottoms meet this condition. Maybe the Weasleys do too. 
Interestingly, Harry meets this criteria too--SS, CoS, GoF. Ginny 
might as well. You think JKR will have another baby destroy 
Voldemort?)

I think the prophecy is sort of like a slot machine. When the final 
confrontation occurs, the slot machine is going to start spinning.  
When the dust settles, the prophecy will be fulfilled, but HOW is not 
set in stone.

Simple scenario--
Harry and his friends get into a fight with V
Harry loses. 
Neville is left standing.
Neville defies V.
V laughs and mockingly bows to him.
Neville's power (persistence and loyalty, let's say) distracts V
Ron sneaks up behind V and kills him

Ta-DA! Prophecy fulfilled and Harry isn't involved.