Why Did Gimli Want Galadriel’s Hair in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth?

When Gimli, the dwarf from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, wanted a strand of Galadriel's golden hair as a gift, it represented more than just admiration for her beauty. It symbolized a deep bond between his race and the Elves, historically fraught with tension. This act was a testament to the interplay of love, respect, and unity between different races in Middle-earth.

Admiration and Respect

Choosing hair to be a gift was more than a casual request. Elves in Middle-earth represent beauty, wisdom, and grace. Gimli’s wish to have her hair signifies his deep respect and admiration for Galadriel. For dwarves, particularly those in the Iron Hills, valuing precious materials and craftsmanship is a core value. Providing such a prized item to their kin would be a significant honor and a mark of true affection.

When Galadriel offers Gimli three strands of her hair, it signifies the historical bond between Elves and Dwarves. This bond had been strained in the past, but the gift of hair serves as a token of friendship and respect. It marks a moment of unity between their races in a time of great strife in Middle-earth.

Literary Context and Inspiration

The reference to the Knights and their ladies' handkerchiefs highlights the symbolic value of such gifts in medieval traditions. Gimli, love struck and desiring a golden token of his beloved’s honor, was following a cultural pattern that had deep roots in history. This act was not just a movie trope, but also a key moment in the books.

The Gift of Hair in the Books

And what gift would a Dwarf ask of the Elves? said Galadriel turning to Gimli.
None, Lady, answered Gimli. It is enough for me to have seen the Lady of the Galadhrim and to have heard her gentle words.
...
Yet surely Gimli, son of Glóin, you desire something that I could give. Name it, I bid you! You shall not be the only guest without a gift.
There is nothing, Lady said Gimli, bowing low and stammering. Nothing unless it might be—unless it is permitted to ask nay to name a single strand of your hair which surpasses the gold of the earth as the stars surpass the gems of the mine.

The Elves were astonished by Gimli’s bold yet courteous request. Lady Galadriel was pleased to grant his wish, knowing the significance behind his request. She stated, “For none have ever made to me a request so bold and yet so courteous.”

The Meaning and Outcome

Gimli’s deliberate choice to honor Galadriel with a strand of hair was a bold and respectful gesture. He proposed to honor her by keeping it imperishable in crystal, forever symbolizing their bond. This concept was also present in the history of their races, as seen in Feanor's failed request for Galadriel's hair. It shows the enduring allure of the elves' beauty.

Galadriel, movingly, granted his request. She said, “These words shall go with the gift. I do not foretell for all foretelling is now vain: on the one hand lies darkness and on the other only hope. But if hope should not fail then I say to you, Gimli son of Glóin, that your hands shall flow with gold and yet over you gold shall have no dominion.”

This response highlights the delicate balance between material wealth and personal integrity, emphasizing the idea that true power comes from hope and not just material possessions. It's a poignant reflection of the thematic depth in Tolkien's work, where the hallowed and the profane coexist, and where the value of humility and integrity is as important as material wealth.