This document discusses the connection between Tolkien's Istari in The Lord of the Rings and the ancient name for Venus, Ishtar. It suggests that Gandalf's transformation from the Grey to the White describes the 4th and 5th spiritual initiations. It explains that the Istari are Maiar spirits sent by the Valar to guide the peoples of Middle-Earth, and that Istari is closely connected to Ishtar, an ancient name for Venus which represents the higher self of Earth.

1. Ishtar-Venus ( From Google.com)
Why they should take such a form is bound up with the 'mythology' of the 'angelic' Powers of
the world of this fable. At this point in the fabulous history the purpose was precisely to limit
and hinder their exhibition of 'power' on the physical plane, so that they would do what they were
primarily sent for: train, advise, instruct, arouse the hearts and minds of those threatened by
Sauron ... Gandalf really 'died' and was changed ... 'I am Gandalf the White, who has returned
from death."[11]
This latter transformation from 'Gandalf the Grey' to 'Gandalf the White' may very well describe
the 4th and 5th initiations. 'The Istari' are described:
"... an Elvish term denoting an order or brotherhood of wizards. Such wizards are Maiar spirits
older than Middle Earth itself, who have been sent by the Valar, the oldest and greatest beings of
all, out of the Undying Lands into the mortal world to guide the Free Peoples of Middle-Earth ...
They have come secretly ... As one of the Istari, Gandalf is able to wield potent magic ..."[12]
'Istari' has a very close connection to the word 'Ishtar', an ancient name for Venus in the
Chaldean and Assyrian traditions. As stated earlier, Venus (hierarchical ruler of Capricorn) is the
higher self to Earth. The Great White Lodge on Sirius works through Venus to the Great White
Lodge on Earth. Hence Tolkien's 'Istari's' are most certainly those emissaries.

2. Ishtar-Venus