Unraveling the Mystery: Why Did Saruman Want Gandalf’s Staff?

Objects in the hands of magical beings, like Saruman and Gandalf, can become focus points that amplify their power. But why did Saruman specifically want Gandalf's staff? And could it really give him extra power?

The Significance of Magical Objects

Objects held by magical beings often serve as amplifiers of their inherent power. However, these aren't just any objects; they must be familiar to the wielder. In the case of Gandalf and Saruman, their staffs and rings are of utmost importance. Just as the One Ring amplifies Sauron's power, Gandalf's staff is a powerful artifact that embodies his magic and authority.

The Visual Equivalent of the Ring

While the books often downplay the significance of such objects, in the films, the staff is presented as an analogous object to the rings of power. The One Ring to Sauron is like the staff to Gandalf - a powerful artifact that amplifies their power. The unasked question, however, is why does Sauron need the ring and other than saying it makes him unstoppable, the question remains unanswered. By showing the importance of a lesser item like a staff, the films silently imply the ring is similarly powerful, but possibly even more so.

Saruman's Ambition and Gandalf's Power

In the book series, Saruman's desire for Gandalf's staff is rooted in his quest for power and control. Saruman, once a member of the Istari, the order of wizards, travels the land as a guardian of peace and justice. However, he becomes corrupted by his ambition and desire to dominate Middle-earth. By acquiring Gandalf's staff, he not only diminishes Gandalf's influence but also strengthens his own position. The staff serves as a symbol of authority and a source of power, making it a valuable prize in the power struggle.

The Staff's Role in Tolkien's Universe

While the staff itself doesn't grant extra power beyond what a wizard possesses, it is an important artifact that symbolizes a wizard's rank and capabilities. Therefore, having control over Gandalf's staff would likely enhance Saruman's standing among other beings in Middle-earth. For example, in The Two Towers, Gandalf's staff is taken from him after he is captured by Saruman in Isengard. However, later in the story, Gandalf the White retrieves a new staff, representing his rebirth and increased power. This transformation signifies his return as a more powerful figure in the fight against evil, contrasting Saruman's descent into darkness.

The Divine Rebirth and Increased Power

Note that Gandalf's new staff symbolizes not only his renewed purpose and strength but also his new divine capacity to channel his magic and authority. This new staff is a visual representation of his rebirth and the enhanced power he has gained. Saruman, on the other hand, does not gain anything from taking Gandalf's staff; it merely weakens him, making Gandalf even less of a threat to him at that moment. Furthermore, the staff serves as a trophy, signifying that material things now mean more to Saruman than they should for a being focused solely on his mission.

In conclusion, Saruman's desire for Gandalf's staff is a strategic move in his bid for dominance. But ultimately, it is clear that the staff does not provide the extra power he hopes for. Instead, it becomes a symbol of his transformation and rise to greater power, while emphasizing the descent of his former ally into darkness.