Melkor: Free will and redemption
23 October 2021 | Amon Hen, № 291∶ October, 2021, 6
The Silmarillion explores Melkor’s initial rebellion and his fall into darkness, but what do we know of his redeemability? How do Eru, the Valar, and free will change what happened to Melkor? Was he given an opportunity to repent and return to a righteous path?
People often wonder why the Valar, or even Eru Ilúvatar Himself left Melkor to his own devices for extended periods of time, darkening the world and poisoning the hearts of the Children of Ilúvatar. Why didn’t Eru or the combined might of the Valar not just strike Melkor down after every one of his evil deeds? …
❧