Who in Middle-earth Truly Knew Gandalf's Origin as a Maia?

In J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium, the true nature and origin of Gandalf as a Maia are known primarily to a select few key characters. This text explores the knowledge and insights of these figures, shedding light on the enigmatic existence of Gandalf and the secrets of Middle-earth.

The Valar: The Shapers of the World

The Valar, the powerful beings who shaped the world, are aware of Gandalf's origin as one of the Maiar, lesser Ainur created by Eru Ilúvatar. These creators of the land sent him along with the other members of the order of Istari to Middle-earth for a specific purpose—to aid the Free Peoples in their struggle against Sauron. The Valar's deep understanding of the cosmos and the nature of beings in Middle-earth places them at the heart of Gandalf's true origins.

Gandalf Himself: A Wizard Keeping Secrets

Gandalf possesses knowledge of his own origin as a Maia, although he often chooses not to reveal this information directly to others in Middle-earth. His wisdom and discretion are such that he keeps many secrets of his own nature, maintaining a veil of mystery around the true extent of his abilities and origins.

Saruman: A Betrayer of his True Nature

As another Maia sent to Middle-earth, Saruman knows about the Istari's true nature, but his desire for power leads him down a dark path. Instead of fulfilling his original mission, Saruman seeks dominance and control, eventually renouncing his allegiance and betraying both the Valar and the Free Peoples. Saruman's fate serves as a cautionary tale about the temptations of power and the dangers of losing sight of one's true purpose.

Galadriel: A Wise Elf with Partial Knowledge

While she may not know the full details of Gandalf's origin, Galadriel, one of the most powerful Elves and a figure of profound wisdom, likely has some understanding of the nature of the Istari. Her knowledge, combined with her deep insight into the histories and mysteries of Middle-earth, suggests that she has some grasp of Gandalf's true nature and mission.

Elrond: A Wise and Knowledgeable Figure

Similar to Galadriel, Elrond, as a wise and knowledgeable figure, may have insights into Gandalf's true nature. Elrond, a powerful Elf and the Lord of Imladris (Rivendell), is known for his profound wisdom and understanding of the history and lore of Middle-earth. His knowledge of Gandalf's origins, while not explicitly stated in the texts, is likely to be high, given his position and experience.

The Few Who Knew of the Istari's True Nature

In his essay "Istari," Tolkien mentions that only a select few in Middle-earth knew the true nature and origins of the Istari wizards. Elrond, Galadriel, and possibly Círdan are the only ones mentioned. Interestingly, Círdan, a Sindarin elf from Lindon, knew of the Istari's true nature. Círdan held Narya, the Ring of Fire, one of the Three Rings made by Celebrimbor of Eregion. Círdan eventually bestowed Narya upon Gandalf, who kept it until the beginning of the Fourth Age. The significance of this transfer of the Ring underscores the depth of knowledge that Círdan had about the Istari.

Conclusion

In the vast and mystical world of Middle-earth, the knowledge of one's true origin as a Maia is a rare and guarded secret. Gandalf, Saruman, Elrond, Galadriel, and Círdan are the few who held this knowledge, contributing to the complexity and depth of the legendarium. Their actions and revelations, or in some cases, betrayals, are crucial to understanding the intricate tapestry of Middle-earth and the enduring legacy of J.R.R. Tolkien's works.