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In “The Ainulindale” we catch a glimpse of some of Tolkien’s theology. He believes that everything that happens is part of God’s plan for Mankind and the earth. Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad, but ultimately God’s plan is carried out.

Also, in the LoTR theology, not all has been revealed. Even the Valar do not know all of Illuvatar's mind- especially regarding the fate of Men and Middle-Earth. It is a source of subtle and sorrowful tension/anxiety throughout the stories. Poor Men. Death may indeed be a gift from Illuvatar, but the mystery surrounding what happens to their souls made it so easy for Melkor to turn it into a dark and fearsome thing.

Mention is made that after the Last Days of Middle-Earth, Iluvatar would reveal to the minds of his creations "the secret fire".

When Gandalf was on the Bridge of Khazad-Dum he told the Balrog that he was a servant of "the secret fire" and "wielder of the flame of Anor." I wonder if the secret fire that Gandalf serves is the same secret fire that Iluvatar said he would use to illumine the minds of his Children.

Could the secret fire be Tolkien's version of the Holy Spirit?