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Newly Deceased
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Re: The ascendence of Gandalf
I recall reading something to the effect that Gandalf/Olorin might have been the White to begin with, but among the Valar there was a desire for Saruman to be the White, and Gandalf did not put himself forward. In fact, he was even the last to arrive, I think.
(This goes with the Christian principle "he who is last shall be first." I find that Tolkien infused his work with the Truths of his/my religion and this seems to be one of those cases.)
As for the White Council, that also included Elrond and Galadriel, Radagast may have also been involved for a time as well as Celeborn, and perhaps some of the Elf Lords of Rivendell. I don't think that the White Council was limited to the Istari, and apparently did not include all of the Istari, the Blue Wizards being off to the East.
As for Gandalf's translation to White, he certainly proved himself and was found suitable. It was in the hands of Manwe, it would seem (see the eagle's involvement). Saruman had betrayed his order and his post. There was no White.
The Valar could have elected to send another White, I suppose, if Gandalf had not measured up.
I find interesting the insubstantiality of Gandalf's physical body when the eagle flew him to Lothlorien after he was resurrected.
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