In a more serious tone:
We as mortal humans can have no idea of the meaning of creating autonomous self-determining beings, whether in fantasy or in Christan reality. Once such a being is created and "set in motion," if you will, the cause-effect link between creator and created is severed. Such a being can, as in some science-fiction TV shows and movies, "grow beyond it's programming." The inputs and experiences of that being will affect it's judgement. It is capable of deciding for itself whether to serve the good of the entire universe, or merely to serve its own selfish ends.
Now throw emotion into the mix. If there is a "good" jealousy (such as a man jealous for his wife so that he protects her from other suitors), then there is also the possibility of using that same emotion in a bad way, (such as Melkor being jealous of Eru becuase of his position and authority and capabilities.) Melkor became jealous of the Creator, and sought to become like him, or perhaps even MORE powerful, so that all would worship him -- that he could force his will on HIS creation.
The point is that a self-determining autonomous being is just that -- you cannot blame the parents, the creator, or other external circumstances for the behavior of a being that can choose it's own way. Certain reactions may be easier (like punching-back someone who punches you in the mouth), but that does not mean that you are *forced* to do so...you always have the choice. That's the nature of free will.
Eru is, in this sense, no more or less blameable for Melkor's actions than Sauron. Self-determination implies self-responsibility. It's like that bumper-sticker -- "What we are is God's gift to us. What we become is our gift to God." If a being has no choice of what he/she/it becomes, then how can he/she/it be blameworthy or praiseworthy?
I shall now relinquish the soapbox to those who wish to tear down my edifice of cards...
__________________
The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane. ~~ Marcus Aurelius
|