A simple-minded question

[Ali]

No: HPFGUIDX 94988

Sylvia wrote:

> > Does Harry owe a life-debt to Snape for saving his life in the 
first  book? >>>

Steve Bboy replied:  
 
>>>Snape did not save Harry. Snape TRIED to save Harry, but it was 
Hermione with her Flame Charm that actually saved him, although she 
saved him by an accidental twist of fate.

So, if Harry has a life debt to anyone, it's Hermione.>>

Ali:

I actually wonder if in that instant whether Harry does owe a life 
debt to anyone.

We know that Snape owed a life debt to James because James saved his 
life. James risked his life to save Snape.

We know that Pettigrew owes a life debt to Harry because Harry saved 
his life. Arguably, Harry risked his life to save Pettigrew.

 "He ran forward, placing himself in front of Pettigrew, facing the 
wands" p. 275 PoA UK edition.

At that moment, Sirius was so intent on killing Pettigrew that he 
might have been unable to stop himself firing off the curse. Harry 
took an enormous risk.

Harry's life was under threat during that Quidditch match. Both 
Snape and Hermione ensured that no harm was done. But, neither 
risked their life to save him. I think that risk *must* be part of 
the ancient magic which seals the life debt. My feeling is that no 
life debt was formed then.

Ali