Part 4/7:

Tolkien sheds light on why the Valar often choose to represent themselves in humanoid forms. The Valar manifested as elves and men to bridge the gap between themselves and the lesser beings of Arda. They desired to foster understanding and comfort; thus, they obscured their inherent majesty and terror to avoid overwhelming mortals. During their interactions with the free peoples of Middle-earth, the Valar preferred relatable appearances.