HackMDMy Legendarium Spirituality Writings
Welcome to Way of Arda's Lore, where we explore the deeper spiritual meanings within J.R.R. Tolkien's Legendarium. Our approach moves beyond viewing his works as simple fantasy or literature; we see them as gateways into ancient myths, traditions, and shamanic insights, unveiling timeless truths. By focusing on Tolkien's original writings—rather than adaptations like Rings of Power—we aim to honor and preserve the profound mythical and spiritual legacy he intended. The articles below were written by me, Eriol Elwin, a founder of WAL and a lifelong adherent to Tolkien's Legendarium.
Spiritual and Mythological Insights
Way of Arda's Lore — Guardians of the Myth
▶ Way of Arda's Lore delves into the spiritual and mythological depth of Tolkien's Legendarium. We approach his work through a mytho-historical and shamanic lens, seeing it as a gateway to a rich tradition beyond the limits of 'fantasy' or 'literature.' Rejecting superficial adaptations like Amazon’s Rings of Power, we focus on engaging with Tolkien’s original texts to reveal their deeper themes. As explorers of gnosis, our mission is to honor the integrity of Tolkien’s vision and protect the mythic and spiritual legacy embedded in his works.
The Shamanic Resonance of Language in Tolkien's Legendarium
▶ This article explores the interplay between shamanic cognition and language in J.R.R. Tolkien's Legendarium. The article delves into how Tolkien's linguistic creations mirror shamanic practices, suggesting that his narrative materials were influenced by altered states of consciousness akin to shamanic experiences. By examining the metaphysics of language in various shamanic cultures and their connections to Tolkien's work, the piece highlights the profound spiritual and cultural resonances found within his fictional languages and mythologies. Ultimately, it presents a nuanced understanding of how Tolkien's unique approach to language reflects deeper metaphysical truths and shamanic traditions. See our video The Shamanic Resonance of the Elvish Languages in JRR Tolkien's Legendarium.
Summary of Tolkien's poem ‘Mythopoeia’
▶ Tolkien’s Mythopoeia addresses C.S. Lewis, critiquing a reductionist, scientific view that dismisses myths as "lies." He argues that myths convey deeper spiritual truths and that humans, as "sub-creators," connect with the divine through creative storytelling. Tolkien contrasts myth-makers, who explore profound truths and confront life’s challenges, with those focused solely on material progress. The poem concludes with a vision of Paradise, where creation continues in harmony with divine truth, affirming the noble purpose of myth-making.
The Philosophical Foundations of the Legendarium: Neoplatonism vs. Manichaeism
▶ Herein, we compare the philosophical themes in The Silmarillion with Neoplatonism and Manichaeism, showing that Tolkien's work aligns more with Neoplatonism. This is evident in its structured universe, hierarchical cosmology, and the view of evil as a corruption of good. We emphasize how Neoplatonism’s themes of divine aspiration and sub-creation resonate with Tolkien's vision, offering a deeper understanding of The Silmarillion compared to the dualistic approach of Manichaeism.
Shamanic Visions, Insights, and the Illusion of Time
▶ In this article, we examine how shamanic traditions perceive time, emphasizing its link to metaperception—a heightened state of awareness. We contrast the actionable insights gained from shamanic visions, especially with Salvia Divinorum, with the symbolic guidance offered by divinatory systems such as the Elder Futhark runes and the I Ching. We also address the notion of time as an illusion, drawing parallels between shamanic perspectives and scientific theories like the block universe theory. Highlighting metaperception as crucial for grasping the illusory nature of time and revealing deeper truths, we also reference relevant scholarly works on shamanism, divination, and time perception.
Personal Reflections and Scholarly Journeys
A Journey Unsubmitted: Me, Tolkien’s Mythos and the Scholarly Community
▶ My autobiography for Way of Arda's Lore offers a unique perspective on J.R.R. Tolkien's mythos, blending personal experiences with logical insights. I explore Tolkien's work through a mytho-historical lens, incorporating shamanic insights and metaperception. My approach seeks to honor Tolkien's vision by merging myth, history, and the human experience while maintaining intellectual integrity beyond traditional scholarly boundaries. I also address the reluctance of some scholars to engage with Middle-earth innovatively and reference influential concepts such as Robert Pirsig's "cultural immune system," Eric Weinstein's "Gated Institutional Narrative," and the work of Paul Veyne.
Echoes of Atlantis and Númenor: A Comparative Exploration
▶ This article compares the legendary civilizations of Atlantis and Númenor, focusing on their shared themes of grandeur, moral decline, and catastrophic downfall. It shows how both societies, once virtuous and prosperous, fell due to hubris and corruption, ultimately facing destruction through supernatural judgment and environmental disasters. The article examines their governance, religious beliefs, and the impact of mythology on their narratives, while highlighting their influence on modern culture and literature. By connecting these myths, the study emphasizes timeless lessons on the fragility of civilizations and the importance of moral integrity.
Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations
Definition of Mytho-historical
▶ In this definition, we explore the link between history and mythology, with myths offering insights beyond factual evidence. Through the Imaginal Realm, we highlight mytho-historical thinking and its cultural impact, while distinguishing it from shamanic cognition.
Explaining the Differences Between Ilsaluntë Valion and Way of Arda’s Lore
▶ This article explains the differences between Ilsaluntë Valion and Way of Arda’s Lore, two organizations created by many of the same people to serve distinct needs within the broader Tolkien community. While Way of Arda’s Lore focuses on structured educational outreach with a curriculum-based approach to Tolkien’s original writings, Ilsaluntë Valion emphasizes shamanic insight and creative expression, exploring unique interpretations and extensions of the mythos. Despite their differing methodologies, both groups share ideas and complement each other, offering members a holistic experience that honors Tolkien’s tradition while embracing creative growth and innovation.
Internal Harmony, External Clarity: How IV and WAL Approach Tolkien’s Work Without Public Debate
▶ Ilsaluntë Valion (IV) and Way of Arda’s Lore (WAL) adopt a structured, inward-facing approach to engaging with J.R.R. Tolkien's work, avoiding public debates over "canon" and the author's intentions. This method fosters internal harmony and deep, reflective study, treating Tolkien's mythos as a sacred, evolving text rather than a set of rigid truths. By emphasizing personal interpretation, collective insights, and the fluid nature of Tolkien's creation, WAL and IV aim to preserve the richness and spiritual engagement of his works, allowing for diverse and creative expressions. This approach contrasts with public debates that often reduce Tolkien's texts to arguments over canonical facts, which can disrupt internal focus and miss the true value of the texts in inspiring and evolving understanding.
Tolkien and the Evolution of the “Book” in the Legendarium: A Shamanic Perspective
▶ Verlyn Flieger’s paper, Tolkien and the Idea of the Book, examines how Tolkien’s Legendarium centers on the concept of a “book” as a bridge between Middle-earth and the real world, embodied by the Red Book of Westmarch. Early manuscripts like the Golden Book of Tavrobel—recorded by Eriol and revised by his descendants—serve as foundational texts, grounding Tolkien’s mythology in a sense of historical continuity. Tolkien’s creative process mirrors shamanic traditions, where sacred knowledge is transmitted through interpretation, positioning the storyteller as a conduit between mythic and historical realms. The Red Book symbolizes this transmission, blending linguistic and cultural layers to present the Legendarium as rediscovered mythology. However, the fading of Eriol and his descendants in later narratives represents a missed opportunity to reinforce the continuity between the mythic past and the present. Their sustained presence could have deepened the Legendarium’s connection to history, emphasizing it as a living mythology rather than mere fantasy.
Science and Its Limits
▶ We explore the limitations of the scientific method in addressing subjective experiences such as spiritual insights and paranormal phenomena. We highlight science’s dependence on measurable data and reproducibility, which can be challenging in these areas. We advocate for humility and respect when confronting scientific boundaries, suggesting that while science is crucial, it is not the only way to understand the mysteries of existence.
The Resurgence of the Occult and the Metaphysics of Quality: A Scientific Shaman's Investigation
▶ We explore the resurgence of occult practices through the lens of Robert Pirsig's Metaphysics of Quality (MOQ). We examine how the occult attracts those seeking meaning and community in a materialistic world, drawing connections to historical movements such as the 1960s counterculture. Our discussion highlights the occult's response to disillusionment with mainstream religions and technology, and how Pirsig's concept of 'dynamic quality' reflects observed societal shifts.
Cosmic Patterns and Mathematical Symbolism
The Phases of Ithil, the Cycles of Arda, and the Hidden Numbers of the ‘Stars’: A Mathematical and Elvish Connection
▶ Herein, we explore the connection between lunar cycles, Lucas primes, and the golden ratio. We examine how mathematical patterns in lunar phases, tides, and eclipses relate to the Lucas primes 2, 3, 7, 11, 29, 199, and 521, highlighting their significance in cosmic rhythms. We also discuss the golden ratio's impact on planetary orbits and its role in Elvish numerology, reflecting cosmic harmony. Additionally, we delve into the transition from the Valian Year to the Solar Year in Tolkien's mythology and the symbolic importance of solar and lunar eclipses, offering a rich analysis that blends science, mythology, and fantasy.
Legendarium Modal Values
▶ This article examines the numerical patterns and recurring themes in J.R.R. Tolkien's Legendarium, highlighting the significance of Lucas primes 2, 3, and 7, and their multiples. Multiples of 2 represent balance and pairing, multiples of 3 signify trinities and cycles, and multiples of 7 are linked to divine completeness and sacredness. These patterns enhance the mystical and structured nature of Middle-earth's world-building. Examples such as the Two Trees of Valinor, the Three Silmarils, and the Seven Lords and Queens of the Valar show that these numerical themes are inextricably woven into the lore.
Critiques of Adaptations and Fan Perspectives
Why Tolkien’s Works Should Be Read, Not Watched
▶ This article explains that film and TV adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, such as Amazon's Rings of Power, fail to capture the depth, nuance, and philosophical underpinnings of the original texts. It examines how adaptations often reduce Tolkien’s complex narratives to visual spectacle, impose restrictive interpretations, and oversimplify characters, which results in a loss of the author’s intent and literary richness. The article concludes by encouraging readers to engage directly with Tolkien’s works to fully appreciate the intricacies and themes that make Middle-earth truly unique.
The Perils of Arrogance: How Misguided Linguistic Elitism Alienates Devotees of Tolkien's Works
▶ This article critiques the elitism within some groups of Tolkien fans, particularly "Tolkien Linguists," who argue that a 'true' understanding of Tolkien's works requires proficiency in the languages he created. This viewpoint alienates many fans, particularly neurodiverse individuals, who connect more with the narratives and visual elements of his storytelling. Drawing on Tolkien’s own words, the article emphasizes that his primary goal was to engage readers through powerful stories, not linguistic technicalities. While the languages enrich Middle-earth, Tolkien intended the narratives—heroism, moral struggles, and vivid world-building—to be the heart of his works. Overemphasizing linguistic expertise risks misrepresenting this core appeal.
Unveiling the Myth: Pointed Ears and Tolkien’s Elves
▶ This article explores the common assumption that J.R.R. Tolkien's Elves in his Middle-earth legendarium have pointed ears, arguing that this trait is not supported by Tolkien's published works. The author examines Tolkien's detailed descriptions of Elves in The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and The Silmarillion, noting that their beauty, grace, and otherworldly qualities are emphasized, but their ears are never specifically described as pointed. The article also addresses misinterpretations of Tolkien's Letters and linguistic notes, which are often cited to support the pointed-ear theory, and explains that these sources are either ambiguous or refer to Hobbits rather than Elves. The modern association of Elves with pointed ears is traced back to European folklore and Victorian-era art, and the article concludes that this trope is more a product of cultural traditions and later artistic interpretations than an element of Tolkien's original vision.
—Way of Arda's Lore (formerly Tië eldaliéva)
