In J. R. R. Tolkien's fantasy legendarium, the Ainur (singular Ainu) are spirits who are direct representatives of Eru Ilúvatar (Eru meaning 'The One', and Ilúvatar meaning 'Father of All' in the ancient Elvish language of Quenya). Ainur means 'The Holy Ones'. These were the first of the creations of Eru, born of his thought. ^[1]

Origins

Before the creation of Eä (the universe), Eru created the Ainur. The universe was created with Arda (the world) at its centre through the Music of the Ainur or Ainulindalë.

After the music was corrupted by the greatest Ainu, Melkor, several of the most powerful Ainur entered Arda. Eru declined to interfere with Arda in any way and as such the further shaping and governing of Arda was left to these Ainur. Melkor wanted to claim Arda for himself; in response, Manwë and thirteen others of the most powerful decided to confront him, becoming known as the Valar, or The Powers. Much of the world was marred by the conflict between the Valar and Melkor. Eventually (with the aid of the Vala Tulkas, who entered Arda last) Melkor was temporarily overthrown, and the Valar continued shaping the world. Many lesser Ainur who entered Eä became known as the Maiar.

See also

• Valar, greater Ainur
• Maiar, lesser Ainur

Footnotes

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