Oromë

Oromë (Quenya; IPA: [ˈorome] - "Horn-Blower" or "Sound of Horns"), also known as Aldaron (Quenya; IPA: "Horn-Blower"), Araw (Sindarin; IPA: "Horn-Blower") or Arômêz, was an Ainu, one of the Aratar and a Vala who was responsible for the hunt. He was the brother of Nessa and the husband of Vána. Oromë is thirteenth greatest and most powerful of all the Valar. However, he is not counted among the Aratar (The Holy Ones).

Biography

During the Years of the Trees, after most of the Valar had withdrawn completely from Middle-earth and hidden themselves in Aman, Oromë still hunted in the forests of Middle-earth on occasion. Thus, it was he who discovered the Elves when they first awoke at Cuivienenand named them the Eldar [4]. Thereafter he remained close in friendship with them.

A powerful huntsman, he was active in the struggles against Morgoth. He had a great horn called the Valaróma and a great steed named Nahar.[3] Huan, a Hound from Valinor, once belonged to him but was later given to Celegorm, a son of Fëanor.[5]

In legend, Oromë is said to have first created the Rainbow or "Bridge of Heaven" using golden threads of Vána's hair, during the Hiding of Valinor.

Character

Oromë is described as being a mighty lord and a great huntsman, as he would often train his folk and beasts in pursue of evil creatures. He loved the lands of Middle-earth and was initially unwilling to leave it. He contrasts with the Vala Tulkas in demeanor; whereas Tulkas laughs in sports, Oromë is said to be dreadful in anger.

Maiar of Oromë

Tilien, the Maiar who guided the Moon, was one of his Maiar in Valinor. She is fifth most powerful of all the Maiar.

Alatar and Pallando, the last two of the five wizards, were Maiar sent by Oromë to Middle-earth. What became of them is not known, although apparently they journeyed into the east with Saruman, but did not return.

Etymology

Oromë means "Horn-blowing" and "Sound of Horns"[7], and is derived from the Valarin name Arômêz.[8]

Araw is the Sindarin translation of Oromë.