The White Council

Re: Olorin-Gandalf

Tolkien and Inklings Discussion

: I was wondering, if Gandalf/Mithrandir was just an incarnation of Olorin? I know that they are obviously the same being, but is Gandalf a form that Olorin took, with specific powers, a specific type of body, and certain limitations. My main question is, why the limitations? I know that old "men" symbolize wisdom and not war, but why the masking of so much power? Why almost cripple your spirit by taking a body that seems so weak, and only allowing you power to be accessed at certain times.

: Couldn't that body be a great weariness? Was there a choice thatOlorin and the rest of the five wizards had as to wether they would be in the guise of wise old men? Why have the burden of getting older at all? Why not have a body of the eldar which is much more versatile?

: I'm sure this could be answered with "Well they were not supposed to use their power openly, or they were meant to be wise not warriors" But I am sure there could have been a body a little bit less burdensome for such an angelic being? What does everone else think?

I think you've asked some very good questions, most, if not all are answered in The Unfinished Tales. All five of the Istari who came to Middle-Earth came as old men and were forbidden to use all their power by the Valar who sent them. Each "wizard" was selected by one of the Valar. Why "old"? My guess is that there are several reasons. One: Old age was respected. Two: They would be considered less dangerous by those with whom they had dealings. Three: Their age would allow them to speak with high ranking people on a more equal footing rather than being considered a young "upstart".

They did get tired. They felt pain, frustration, anguish, worry and all the same feelings we have. Gandalf complained of his knees I believe. They could be tempted and could fail. They didn't know everything, though they were wise and experienced. And they could die, as Gandalf showed by example. They could also lose sight of their mission and become enamored by life in Middle-Earth, as Radagast seems to have done. He cared more for the birds and animals than he did for the people he was sent to aid. And they could fall prey to evil, as Saruman did.

There is more, but I suggest reading it for yourself if you have the book. If you don't have it, I highly recommend it, as I'm sure others here will also.