Elven Princes- What power do they have

[Lalwendë]

You'll find some interesting things about Glorfindel here including ideas about why and how he came back to Middle Earth. It does seem that because of his subsequent heroic actions, he was not only given a new incarnation but was also allowed to cross back to Middle Earth (it seems that those who were incarnated again stayed in Valinor).

I think, Elrond, that in this matter it would be well to trust rather to their friendship than to great wisdom. Even if you choose for us an elf-lord, such as Glorfindel, he could not storm the Dark Tower, nor open the road to the Fire by the power that is in him.'

Looking at what Gandalf says, I think he is warning Elrond against trying to choose the Fellowship for their strength or wisdom. He seems to be saying that neither of these things will help them either beat Sauron or sneak into Mordor, and that great friendship will count for a lot more on this mission. Which proves to be true.

It's a good question though, daeron, as that passage does seem to hint that Glorfindel has some powers within him. Having come back from the Halls of Mandos, he must have been chosen in some way - and to be chosen maybe he already had these powers? It reminds me of how Gandalf himself is sent back to Middle earth, though at a lesser level. It might be worth me having a look at that older thread again!