Nienna

Often referred to as the "Lady of Mercy," Nienna is one of the Queens of Valar and is one of the Aratar. She is the sister of Mandos and Irmo and she is not married.

Her concern is with mourning, and she pities the suffering of others, especially the Marring of Arda by Melkor. However, her tears bring healing, and despite the sadness associated with her position, Nienna brings not endless grief, but pity, hope and the endurance of spirit.

Nienna's pity for others can be most clearly noted in her support for Melkor when he sued for the pardon of the Valar. Despite spending much of her time mourning for the destruction that Melkor incited in Arda, she spoke on his behalf for his freedom.

Perhaps one of her most well known students was Olorin, who was known by many mortals as Gandalf. She also provides comfort to all who dwell in the Hall of Awaiting.

She lives in far western Valinor near Mandos, and rarely visits Valimar. Her windows look out beyond the Walls of the Night.

Her name means 'She Who Weeps.'