A thought provoking subject if there ever was one. If I understand the question right (and I'm not sure I do), I would say that beings in Middle Earth did have free will, but that Eru knew what was going to happen. Knowing something is going to happen (made possible by existing in eternity) does not actually make the event happen. I'm not sure if that makes much sense; I can barely understand it [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
Another thought: I don't think the 'beginning' marked the beginning of Eru himself. I always assumed that Eru always was and always will be, much like the Christian god. My opinions are rather influenced, though, since I am a Christian.
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