I think there are several references in LOTR about various individuals who have died and gone to the "halls of their fathers" or something along those lines. I'm too lazy to look them up.
It's pretty clear motal beings can't stay in the eternal elven realm forever, however there does seem to be an implication their souls or personalities or whatever dwell eternally somewhere in the presence of Ea. Why would it be necessary to heal their souls if they weren't going to exist eternally somewhere?
"Leaf by Niggle" is a short story that gives a pretty good picture of Tolkien's views on purgatory and its purposes for those interested in pursuing that perspective.
[ June 24, 2003: Message edited by: greyhavener ]
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Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
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