Valar

The Valar are a group of powerful divine beings in J. R. R. Tolkien’s legendarium. They are among the Ainur, the holy powers created by Eru Ilúvatar, who descended into Eä, the world, to shape and govern Arda. Dwelling in Valinor, the Blessed Realm, they are regarded as the principal guardians and stewards of the world and are known collectively as the Powers of the World.

The Valar are fourteen in number, traditionally considered to be seven male and seven female. They exercise dominion over different aspects of the world, such as the elements, nature, and fate, and they guide the development of Arda and its inhabitants. They are not omnipotent and operate under Ilúvatar’s overarching design; their direct intervention in mortal affairs is limited and typically comes in response to pleas or dramatic events in the histories of Elves and Men. The best-known Valar include Manwë, who rules the airs and the winds; Ulmo, master of the waters; Aulë, the smith and craftsman; Oromë, the hunter and guardian of forests; Mandos, the doomsman and judge of the dead; Lórien, lord of dreams and sleep; and Tulkas, the champion of strength and war. The female Valar include Varda (Elbereth), queen of the stars; Yavanna, giver of fruits and growing things; Vána, associated with youth and renewal; Vairë, the weaver of fate; Nienna, who endures sorrow and consoles; and Estë, healer and rest-giver. Melkor (Morgoth) is counted among the Valar in his early history before his rebellion.

Primary sources for the Valar include the Valaquenta in The Silmarillion, which outlines their natures and roles. See also Ainur, Eä, and Silmarillion.