We explore the gods that Tolkien created for our Middle-earth universe that the cinema kept in the shadows.

In the vast Lord of the Rings universe there are some very majestic figures. These beings gifted with divine abilities embellished the tapestry of Middle-earth with magic and fairy tales, creating a reality beyond the limits of the mind. Although the films give us a glimpse of this world, there are elements whose essences cannot be seen through the lens of a camera on the pages of JRR Tolkien’s books, but are omnipresent in the hearts of fans.

The dwarf craftsman

Aol, the Valar of forging and creation, was eager to have beings to teach his art to, so he forged the dwarves with his own hands. Although this act of creation was initially disapproved of by Ilúvatar, his superior eventually blessed it, integrating the dwarves into the grand design of Middle-earth. Ol is remembered not only as the father of the Dwarves, but as Sauron’s mentor in the early days, a legacy that runs deep into the rich tapestry of history that created this world.

Waterproof

Unlike his Valar brothers, Ulmo chose to live in the depths of the seas, rivers, and lakes as the tireless guardian of Middle-earth. His love for water and the people who live near it motivates him to intervene at key moments, leading heroes and shaping the fate of many battles. His presence is a constant reminder of the eternal connection between nature and the fate of all living beings.

The voice of the forest

Yavana, Aul’s companion, devoted herself to stewardship of plants and trees, breathing life into the green blanket of Middle Earth. Concerned for the safety of her creations, she conceived the Ents as guardians of the forest, an act that would have a major resonance in the events of the Third Age, showing how the actions of one being could change the course of history. .

Queen of stars

Varda the Bright, whose majesty shines through the starry veil that covers the night, is revered by the Elves as the undisputed queen of the sky. His work is fundamental to understanding the Elven spirituality of Manwe and his companions and their eternal yearning for the unquenchable light of Valinor.

Incarnate strength

Known for his contagious laugh and unmatched strength, Tulkas represents joy and pure courage. His arrival in Middle-earth was a glimmer of hope for those who fought against the Shadows, and his victories over Melkar are a myth that symbolizes the eternal struggle between light and darkness.

Guardian of destiny

Also known as Mandos, Namo is the keeper of souls and speaker of destiny. His awareness of the cycle of life and death, as well as his role in the judgment of spirits, places him in a unique position in Tolkien’s cosmogony as reminders of the inevitability of the end and the hope of purpose.

The riddle of the old forest

Tom Bombadil, an enigmatic and happy man, is known for his immunity to the powers of the One Ring and his superior abilities in nature. His absence from the films left many fans eager to include a representation of the pure joy and unfathomable mystery at the heart of Middle-earth.

A manifestation of emptiness

Unseen with Melkor, it represents a combination of darkness, terror and insatiable destruction. His descendants, including Selob, continue his legacy of darkness, adding a layer of cosmic horror to Tolkien’s universe that resonates with genre fans.

Ruler of the Valar

Manwe, leader of the Valar, is the embodiment of vision and justice. But his relationship with evil leads him to make decisions that have many consequences, showing the complexity of management and the weight of responsibility.

Superior enemy

Melkor, later known as Morgoth, is the ultimate antagonist, whose lust for power and supremacy sparks one of the most devastating events in Middle-earth history. His fall and the consequences of his actions will be felt throughout the ages, all the inhabitants of this world will remember the constant presence of evil and the need for vigilance and resistance.

A universe rich in legends

These divine beings, though absent from the big screen, remain fundamental pillars in the vast Lord of the Rings universe. Their complex and profound stories offer much wisdom, bravery and hope beyond narrative.