Biblical Parallels In Silmarillion?

[starcrystal]

I've noticed Tolkiens works compared to other theologies, but I find more of the Bible than any other.
Especially in the Silmarillion, with the creation story, the two trees, Melkors being cast out, etc.
I discuss this on the page "Comentary on Silmarillion" at
http://arwensoracle.tripod.com

 

[Tarlanc]

I've noticed Tolkiens works compared to other theologies, but I find more of the Bible than any other.

Have you compared it to Norse Mythology already. That was quite a source of inspiration for Tolkien as it seems.

But of course there are parallels to the Bible, too. Tolkien was a christian man and grew up with the bible after all.
The fall of Melkor is one of the most striking examples. It is quite similar to the fall of Satan.

However, the presence of different Gods, witchcraft and spirits does not get along with the Bible very well.

 

[Ambartur]

I don't recall reading about other gods in any of the books...Sure there were the Valar, but they weren't "gods." Certainly not on the same level as Eru. They are more associable with angels to me than gods...

And about the presence of other spirits not going along with the Bible, the Bible is full of references to evil spirits and devils, and people who practice witchcraft. Many times Jesus cast devils out of people, and I believe it was the prophet Elijah (I may be mistaken) who encountered a woman who practiced witchcraft. The Bible has many things on the spiritual and supernatural sides of life, what would be called "The Unseen" in Tolkien's world.

 

[HLGStrider]

I find reading the Sil to be a lot like reading the Bible at times, just because I read King James and the language feels similar. . .

There are some paralels, mostly mythical, to the Bible. It was undeniably an influence. So were, undeniably, other myths, including Atlantis and Norse bits.