Why Would Eru Send Gandalf Back Far More Powerful If He Didn’t Intend for the Wizard to Actively Use It?

One of the fascinating aspects of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is the strategic placement and power assignment of characters, particularly the wise and powerful Gandalf. Many argue that when Eru (the One, or the Creator) chose to strengthen Gandalf with immense power, he did so with a deep understanding of the current state of affairs in Middle-earth. This article explores why Eru would choose to give Gandalf such a power boost, given the apparent lack of visible endgame for his active use.

Strategic Necessity

At the time of Gandalf's second journey into the shadow, things were reaching their end game. With Saruman turning traitor and the two blue wizards incommunicado for decades, Gandalf became the last bastion of good wisdom. Had Eru not intended for Gandalf to play a crucial role, it’s difficult to see the rationale behind granting him a significant power surge.

The power increase was not intended for trivial upgrades like battlefield artillery or to make it feasible for the Fellowship to confront Sauron head-on. Such immense power would be superfluous for those particular goals.

The Replacing of Saruman

Part of Eru's wisdom lay in recognizing the need for a replacement for Saruman. Gandalf the White symbolizes what Saruman's character could have been if he had chosen the path of wisdom and light. This transition not only ensures a balance in the forces at play but also serves as a moral lesson.

Inspiration and Providence

The power boost was meant to be inspiring. Witnessing Gandalf’s heroic and sacrificial actions against the Balrog serves as a powerful reminder that Providence is on their side. This inspiration strengthens the resolve of the Fellowship, reinforcing the message that although the struggle against evil is hard, it is a worthwhile fight.

The Lesser Risks Involved

Eru's decision to reassign power to Gandalf comes with a comprehensive understanding of Gandalf’s capabilities and his unwavering commitment to his mission. Here are several reasons why Eru decided to trust Gandalf with such immense power:

Unmatched Experience: Over centuries, Gandalfa has consistently pursued his goal, learning from his experiences. His journey has shown that he is not inclined to abuse power and has learned to achieve more through wisdom and guidance than direct confrontation. Clear Trust: Eru knows Gandalf’s heart and mind deeply, and he trusts that Gandalf will use the power responsibly, inspired by the mission to guide and inspire others rather than embarking on a dangerous, direct confrontation with Sauron. Avertable Dangers: By the time Gandalf was restored with immense power, the greatest dangers had largely passed. Even if Gandalf were to repeat the missteps of Saruman, it would be too late to reverse the course of events leading to Mount Doom and the return of Aragorn.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Eru’s decision to strengthen Gandalf with immense power was a combination of strategic necessity and inspirational leadership. This decision was not made in haste, but through careful consideration of Gandalf’s unwavering commitment, his role in guiding others, and the diminished yet manageable risks involved.

The power increase for Gandalf serves as a profound lesson in wisdom and sacrifice, reinforcing the theme that true victory often lies in guiding others rather than engaging in direct conflict. This makes Eru's choice a sensible and wise decision, ensuring the continued balance and hope for Middle-earth.