I am in a hurry too, but I hope we will have time to enjoy this discussion properly..
Quote:
Originally Posted by skip
So you're saying that when Eru created Melkor he already knew he was going to rebell and torment everything that lives in Arda?
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Most likely, yes; the most relevant passage that comes to my mind is:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ainulindale, Silmarillion
And thou, Melkor, shalt see that no theme may be played that hath not its uttermost source in me, nor can any alter the music in my despite.
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As for the question of evil:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Myths Transformed, II, HoME X
Nonetheless this gift of Iluvatar to the Valar has its own peril, as have all his free gifts: which is in the end no more than to say that they play a part in the Great Tale so that it may be complete; for without peril they would be without power, and the giving would be void.
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As for the the balance...
Quote:
Originally Posted by Athrabeth Finrod ah Andreth, HoME X
The Voice had spoken to us, and we had listened. The Voice said:
- Ye are my children. I have sent you to dwell here. In time ye will inherit all this Earth, but first ye must be children and learn. Call on me and I shall hear; for I am watching over you.
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