A view from the Meneltarma
Meneltarma, meaning Pillar of the Heavens in the common tongue, was a sacred mountain in the center of Númenor. Its summit was flattened and broad, but able to contain a large multitude during religious ceremonies though no structures were ever erected on it.
It is was sunken along with the rest of Númenor but it was however believed to have risen once more out of the sea as a small island of Middle-earth.
History
Silence was required, imposed on any one who climbed the mountain. The tradition was so strong and universal that even foreigners felt bound by it. The King alone was allowed to utter prayers and thanksgivings to Eru Ilúvatar, during the feasts of Erukyermë, Erulaitalë and Eruhantalë.
Birds and other animals did not approach the place, only the Eagles of Manwë were seen circling over the summit and were regarded as sacred guardians of the mountain and all the land.
The base of the mountain sloped gently and divided itself into five roots reaching to the five divisions of the land. The roots were called Tarmasundar, meaning the Roots of the Pillar. On the southern slopes were located the tombs of Kings and Queens of Númenor, within a valley called Noirinan.
After the destruction of Númenor, some amongst the Exiles believed that the summit of the mountain remained as an island in Belegaer. Some Dúnedain, the descendants of the Númenoreans, are even said to have set sail trying to reach the island, from which the legend held that one could catch a glimpse of the unreachable Aman[1], however, Aman was no longer "in" the Earth.
Translations around the World
| Foreign Language | Translated name |
|---|---|
| Georgian | მენელტარმა |
| Russian | Менельтарма |
| Yiddish | מענעלטאַרמאַ |
References
- ↑ The Silmarillion, Akallabêth (The Downfall of Númenor)
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