Part 5/7:

Now turning to the main question: Could Saruman defeat the Balrog? After careful consideration, it is concluded that the answer is no. Those who argue that Saruman, as the superior White Wizard, would triumph over the Balrog must acknowledge that his form as the White Wizard has been tainted by corruption, effectively making his powers flawed.

Gandalf's connection to the divine is pivotal in this discourse. The "secret fire" that Gandalf calls upon in battle represents a moral and spiritual force that Saruman, in his corruption, cannot access. This disparity illustrates a broader conflict between good and evil, evident as Gandalf stands as a servant of the secret flame, a power denied to Saruman.