Tolkien's Vision of the Cosmic Realm: Understanding Arda and its Boundaries

One of the most fascinating aspects of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and his broader The Silmarillion is the intricate and detailed cosmology he devised for his Middle-earth. Tolkien's vision is vast, imaginative, and deeply rooted in a cosmological framework that extends beyond human comprehension. In this article, we will explore the rich and detailed nature of Tolkien's cosmos, known as Arda.

Tolkien's Immeasurably Vast Universe: Arda and E

According to Tolkien's work, the universe is 'immeasurably old and vast' and 'numerous in general and in particular and in several levels'. This vastness is a central theme in his cosmology, which is best described through the Round Version. When Tolkien refers to something as 'immeasurable,' he is indicating that it is so vast that it surpasses any human ability to measure, explore, observe, or even imagine entirely. This concept is akin to our modern understanding of the 'observable universe,' which signifies a specific and distinct part of the vast cosmos.

Understanding the 'Observable Universe' in Tolkien's Mythos

In Tolkien's lore, there exists a continuous and expanding universe known as 'E,' a term which is often used interchangeably with 'the Universe.' Within this universe, there is an 'observable universe' that is akin to our own cosmic realm, known as Arda. Tolkien describes a specific part of this universe as 'that immeasurable reality' which is bounded by 'E in general'. Arda, as the Kingdom of Earth, is a part of this vast cosmos but is distinctly different from the whole of E.

Arda's Composition and the Observations of Its Inhabitants

The inhabitants of Arda, especially the Elves, have a profound understanding of the cosmos. Tar Meneldur, a High King of Númenor, dedicated his studies to Elvish lore concerning E and the deeps that surround the Kingdom of Arda. His chief delight was in the watching of the stars, indicating a deep fascination with the astronomical and astrological aspects of the cosmos.

However, the Incarnate races, including Elves and Men, could only grasp a part of this vast reality with their imagination. This led to the concept of the 'Void', a mythic term representing the unobservable and unimagined vastness beyond the cosmos that the Incarnate races could comprehend. The Void symbolizes the unknowable and the infinite, adding a layer of mystery to Tolkien's cosmology.

Exploring Arda: Tools and Observations

Some races of Arda, particularly the Elves, possessed a deeper understanding of the cosmos. Elves, who lived among and were tutored by the Valar (deities), had true knowledge of Arda's structure. However, even the Elves were dependent on their eyesight for observation, which could see far and clearly beyond the splendor of Anar (the setting sun). This unique capability of the Elves explains why the mythological descriptions of the cosmos in The Silmarillion include references to innumerable stars, splendors, vast halls, and wheeling fires.

Númenórean Observatories and Astrology

The Númenóreans, descendants of the Edain, were particularly adept at studying the stars. They built numerous observatories and developed advanced instruments. The most notable was the tower built by Tar-Meneldur in the North of the island. Described as the 'first and greatest of the observatories of the Númenóreans,' this structure allowed the Númenóreans to conduct detailed observations of the cosmos. However, even with these advanced tools, their understanding of the cosmos was limited by their human nature.

The Quest to Shape the Cosmic Realm

The creation of Arda, known as the Kingdom of Earth, was a collaborative effort by the Ainur (angelic beings) who entered the world at the beginning of time. Forged through their labors and crafted from E, Arda was imbued with a unique quality. In their quest to fulfill their vision, the Ainur labored in the vast regions of E, which are beyond the comprehension of Elves and Men. Through their actions, the Ainur shaped Arda and put on the raiment of Earth, making it accessible to their own existence.

Conclusion: The Boundaries and Vastness of Tolkien's Cosmology

J.R.R. Tolkien's cosmology is a complex and intricate web of myth, legend, and scientific inspiration. Through the detailed descriptions of Arda and its cosmic surroundings, Tolkien invites us to explore a universe that transcends the limits of human imagination. From the immeasurable vastness of E to the specific and bound Arda, Tolkien's cosmology challenges us to consider the infinite and the finite, the knowable and the unknowable, and the role of humanity within the grand tapestry of the cosmos.