The Maiar hold a significant yet enigmatic presence within the realm of The Lord of the Rings. These powerful beings play pivotal roles not only in the creation of the universe but also throughout the extensive history of Arda. Serving under the Valar, the Maiar contributed to shaping the world, wielding their powers for both good and evil, and even forming deep connections with the races of Middle-earth. Yet, the question arises: how do the Maiar rank among themselves in terms of power and influence?
Within Tolkien’s expansive mythology, the universe was brought into existence by Eru Ilúvatar, who created the Ainur, consisting of both the Valar and the Maiar. While the Valar are often regarded as gods in their own right, the Maiar are their angelic counterparts—lesser yet potent in their strengths. Numerous Maiar exist, though only a select few are prominently recognized or remembered within the lore of The Lord of the Rings. Below, we explore the most formidable among them.
10 Ilmara
Chief Among The Maiar
Ilmarë, revered as the foremost of the Maiar, serves under Varda, the Queen of the Valar. Her wisdom and grace command deep respect and perhaps a touch of fear from her peers. Known as the guardian of the night sky, Ilmarë’s name translates to “Starlight”in Quenya. Her union with Eönwë, the herald of King Manwë, underscores her significance within this celestial hierarchy.
While Ilmarë’s power manifests differently than that of other Maiar—focused on love and music rather than combat—her influence is undeniably profound. Tolkien illustrates that the quiet beauty of existence holds its own strength.
9 Osse
Maia Of Ulmo
Ossë, the Maia aligned with Ulmo, the Vala of water, prefers the coasts and islands. Known as a protector of mariners, he experienced a brief allegiance to Melkor before renouncing his dark path, ultimately playing an essential role in shaping Middle-earth’s maritime destiny.
His notable feats include raising Númenor from beneath the waves, creating a sanctuary for the noble races of Men following the War of Wrath. Nonetheless, Ossë’s influence is largely confined to his dominion over the seas.
8 Durin’s Bane
The Balrog Of Moria
Known as the Balrog of Khazad-dûm, Durin’s Bane is a haunting figure responsible for the downfall of King Durin VI. Born as a Maia, Durin’s Bane was twisted by Melkor’s malevolence during the First Age. This being remained dormant in Moria for centuries, instilling fear throughout the ages without ever being fully conquered.
Although ultimately slain by Gandalf the Grey, the Balrog’s demise came at a great cost—Gandalf’s life was also forfeited in the battle against this creature of formidable power.
7 Musician
The Wizard Gandalf
Olórin, better known as Gandalf, stands out as the most renowned of the Maiar within Tolkien’s works. His journey transformed Middle-earth’s battle against Sauron, functioning not primarily through brute strength but with wisdom, compassion, and strategic insight.
Initially hesitant to confront Sauron, Olórin served various Valar, absorbing knowledge and honing his abilities. His keen insight, nurtured by Nienna, equipped him to guide Middle-earth with gentleness, though he remained capable of formidable combat.
6
The Wizard Saruman
Curumo, while known as Saruman in Middle-earth, served as a Maia of Aulë and was distinguished for his craftsmanship. His wisdom earned him a place as the leader of the Istari, tasked with opposing Sauron. Though respected by his peers, Curumo’s desire for power ultimately led him down a dark path.
As a wizard, Curumo wielded great influence, ideally positioned to inspire the inhabitants of Middle-earth. Yet, he also possessed the potential for manipulation, paralleling the powers of Sauron, though with less effectiveness.
5 Gothmog
The Lord Of The Balrogs
As the Lord of the Balrogs, Gothmog stood as a top lieutenant to Morgoth, involved deeply in pivotal battles. Having originated as a Maia, his particular allegiance before his fall remains cloaked in mystery. He is notorious for slaying some of the most powerful Elves of the Noldor, including kings Fëanor and Fingon.
Gothmog’s ultimate defeat came at the hands of Ecthelion of the Fountain, a confrontation that proved fatal for both combatants, showcasing the high stakes involved when facing such malevolence.
4 Melian
The Maia Who Fell In Love With A King
Melian, who served both Vána and Estë, initially tended the Gardens of Lórien with her enchanting voice. Her affection for the Children of Ilúvatar guided her as she accompanied the Elves to Valinor, eventually marrying the Elf King Thingol.
As Queen of Eglador, Melian demonstrated vast power, including foresight and the ability to repel Ungoliant, one of the most fearsome entities in Middle-earth. Her protective spell, known as the “Girdle of Melian,”safeguarded her domain against any with ill intentions. This formidable power is underscored by her lineage as the ancestor of Arwen.
3 years
The Herald of Manwë
Eönwë, famed as the herald of Manwë, stood at the helm of the Maiar alongside Ilmarë. His might is complemented by profound wisdom, allowing him to carry Manwë’s sword into battle. Notably, Eönwë played a crucial role in defeating Morgoth during the War of Wrath, capturing the essence of his strength.
The fact that Sauron, a powerful Maia himself, sought Eönwë’s clemency underscores the latter’s formidable authority.
2 arias
The Guardian Of The Sun
Arien, a Maia associated with Vána, is celebrated for her radiant beauty, commanding a role as the carrier of the sun after the destruction of the Two Trees of Valinor. While Tolkien regarded her as a being of immense power, her abilities manifested differently than those of Sauron or Gandalf.
As Guardian of the Sun, Arien’s might makes her nearly invincible—an entity even the Dark Lord hesitated to confront.
1 Mairon
The Dark Lord Sauron
Mairon, known to many as Sauron, originally served Aulë and was highly esteemed for his craftsmanship. Renowned for his values of balance and beauty, he was once celebrated among the Maiar. Yet, it was his ambition that led him to ally with Melkor, ultimately sealing his fate.
This ambition culminated in the creation of the One Ring, a defining testament to his power to influence and control others. Sauron’s ability to perceive and manipulate the thoughts and desires of Men, Elves, and even Maiar rendered him a formidable adversary. His binding to the One Ring ultimately became his downfall, suggesting that even the most powerful beings like Sauron are not invulnerable.
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