Posted: May 05, 2000 at 17:26:59: by Fangorn the Wizard
: Just how powerful was Gandalf? I have been trying to decide this for myself. I mean he was a Maia, defended himself against the Nazgul at Weathertop(when he was Gandalf the Grey), fought and slew a Balrog(another Maia), broke Sarumans staff(his symbol of power), and was said to be Saurons "peer". IF he was that powerful than why didn't he challenge Sauron openly or do more. Granted I would say he did A LOT of work but he still could have done more in my opinion such as have challenged the Witch King to single combat at the Battle of Pelenor Fields or something like that. Just thought I would ask.
: -ThentaranGandalf was highly limited in his use of "magic" and other supernatural powers in his human form. It is difficult to say just how powerful Gandalf was in a non-human form or whether or not he would have been able to take on Sauron. Gandalf's purpose on Middle-Earth was not to take on The Dark Lord single-handedly but, rather, to help the people of Middle-Earth in their endeavors against and above all, IMO, to inspire courage in the hearts of men. One question from me. Did Gandalf plan to take on The Witch King one-on-one,but ended up having his job done for him by Eowyn and Merry? Because that's how I see it.
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