Ainulindale: How Tolkien's Universe Was Sung Into Being | Silmarillion Explained

The Ainulindale is Tolkien's creation myth, where the universe was sung into existence by divine spirits called the Ainur under the direction of Eru Iluvatar. Before time began, Eru taught the Ainur music and propounded to them great themes. Their combined voices shaped a Vision of the world to come. But Melkor, the mightiest of the Ainur, introduced discord into the Music, seeking the Flame Imperishable - the creative power that only Eru possessed. Rather than destroy this rebellion, Iluvatar wove the discord into a greater harmony, introducing the theme of Elves and Men as his secret response. When Iluvatar spoke the word "Ea!" the Vision became reality, and the Flame Imperishable - which Tolkien identified as the Holy Spirit - kindled the world into being. The Ainulindale establishes the theological foundation for everything that follows: Arda Marred by Morgoth's corruption, the long defeat against evil, and the promise of a Second Music where all discord will finally resolve into transcendent beauty.