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Originally Posted by HI
The reason why Gandalf could not be hurt is probably (without textual evidence, but as plausible a theory as I could think of) the fact he is now 'clothed' maia, returned to his original form (though maybe spirit returned to his 'human' body lying on the summit of Redhorn), not fully and finally incarnate as he has been before. So even Andúril would not hurt him - how physical thing can harm spirit?
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An interesting theory, no doubt. But isn't Gandalf the Gray Maia as well? The Istari (or
you 
) have only been commanded by the Valar not to show the true extent of their powers, among others. So they are residing in human flesh in the form of wizards, but their spirits are still Maiar nonetheless. And it is this fact that made Gandalf's "ascension" to the White possible; otherwise he would have remained in Caradhras, a wizard clothed in gray. Gandalf the White is still like the Gray, albeit of a higher power. He is still in the form of man, and can be killed. Perhaps it is just his greater power that could protect him from the three's attacks.