How Powerful is Gandalf?

This video is a revised and updated version of a video first released in April 2020.

I think it is worth noting that Gandalf defeated the Balrog and that Balrog had defeated all the dwarves in Moria.

Like the old adage goes. "When you do things right, people will hardly think you did anything at all."

No one ever talks about Gandalf's super human stamina and imperviousness. While battling the Balrog he easily survived a fall from great height. He followed the Balrog "from the lowest dungeon to the highest peak" without food or water. All in all he battled the Balrog for 8 days without sleep or rest!

Again and again and again...Tolkien's message is reflected in his poem: “All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken, A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken, The crownless again shall be king.” He repeats this theme over and over again: that just because something appears weak, frail, fragile, and even worthless, does not mean it is so. It is the quintessence of the idea of "judging not by the appearance." You see it in Bilbo, you see it in Frodo, you see it in Aragorn, you see it in Gandalf...you even see it on Gollum, who was on the very cusp of repentance because of Frodo's unearned kindness to him. Gandalf purposely concealed the extent of his power. He made himself appear meek and humble, on purpose. And there were many who underestimated him, to their detriment. Those who engaged in naked power for the sake of power were, in the end, defeated. It was not power that won the war. It was humility, and grace, and kindness, and courage, and compassion which did. The theme is woven in most of the characters in the work, and it is elegant, subtle, beautiful, and brilliant.

He's got more levels in thief than wizard. Stole a book, stole a sword, stole a horse, stole a giant magical marble. Every time there's loot he's grabbing the best pieces.

I like how Gandalf is basically anti-sauron, he's humble and kind and his ring helps him bring hope and courage wherever he arrives, while sauron is cruel, arrogant and his ring take away all hope and free will

Gandalf has always seemed to be a powerful being who restricted himself only using his power when absolutely neccessary, unlike Saruman who wasn't as keen to do the same

Also, it is worth noting that as a Maia, Gandalf had some control over basically the fabric of reality. He could speak something and make it be true. “You cannot pass.” “Your staff is broken.” And the Balrog could not pass. And Saruman’s staff was broken.

Honestly, one of my favourite moments with Gandalf is when Aragorn and co reunite with him in Fangorn and Gimli says to effect, "Sorry, we almost killed you back there." and Gandalf basically humble-brags, "It's okay, your weapons wouldn't have been able to hurt me anyway! :)"

The most selfless magic he did was make the beer extra good for 7 years.

If I remember correctly, there are writings that say that Gandalf and the other Istari were forbidden from displaying their full power to the inhabitants of Middle Earth, or from matching Sauron's power with their own. One could also argue that being confined to a mortal body would also temper what power he could bring to bear.

I always saw it as two things, Gandalf’s role is to inspire others, not do everything for them, and that magic leaves a mark the Sauron/Saurumon may detect.

"Then we must do without hope," is such a simple yet powerful line

My belief is that Gandalf’s restraint and humility helped to keep him from falling into darkness.

I've always been fascinated with Gandalf as a character who was indeed a powerful wizard, but whose brains, diplomatic skills, and simply acting as a go between, are far more consequential than whatever powers he has. That who he was rather than what he was, was more important. Given most Dark Lord types appear to be tremendous organisers for their evil empires regardless of magical power etc, the same may be true of them!

Man, there’s just something so wholesome about your LOTR videos that never fails to bring a smile to my face. Keep doing what you’re doing!

I doubt breaking Saruman's staff was telekinetic. I have always understood that to be Olórin's proven Righteousness and new Authority. The staff broke on Gandalf's word alone. Because he was given Judgement over Curumo/Curumir, who had rejected his Mercy.

Let's not forget the words of "guard and guiding" Gandalf laid upon Bill the Pony when they had to cut him loose at the entrance to Moria. For some reason, this has always charmed me the most, of all the magical things Gandalf did in the books.

A lot of Gandalfs magic comes simply by way of "authority" over the world. Namely, the destruction of Sarumans staff. He simply stated it as though it was part of the story. He was granted greater insight into Erus plan and greater authority to influence the world upon his return.