In the third episode of Season 2 of The Rings of Power, we find ourselves back in Númenor, a kingdom on the brink of significant change. Queen Regent Míriel faces a choice that seems simple on the surface but is deeply symbolic—a choice between two dresses, one white and one red. Her cousin, Pharazôn, presents the dresses with a not-so-subtle push towards the red one, arguing that it represents the future, power, and initiative. But this choice is not just about fashion—it's a pivotal moment that encapsulates the clash between humility and pride, a theme that reverberates through Tolkien's works and this episode.

A Choice Between Humility and Pride

Míriel’s decision between the white and red dresses is reminiscent of the iconic choice Neo faces in The Matrix: the blue pill, which represents staying in a comfortable but false reality, or the red pill, which symbolizes embracing an uncertain and challenging truth. Here, the white dress stands for humility, continuity, and the values of her father, Tar-Palantir. The red dress, however, is a symbol of pride, ambition, and a break from the past—a future that Pharazôn, and many in Númenor, are eager to embrace.

Pharazôn, a man clearly driven by his own ambitions, wants Míriel to choose red, signaling a shift in Númenor’s course towards a more aggressive and isolationist stance. Yet, Míriel, who has had prophetic visions of Númenor’s downfall, understands the dangers of abandoning the kingdom’s core values. She chooses the white dress, a symbol of humility and wisdom, signaling her intent to lead not with an iron fist but with a servant’s heart.

True Leadership in the Face of Adversity

Míriel’s humility is put to the test during her ascension ceremony, where she faces not only the weight of leadership but also the anger and pain of her people. The episode delivers a powerful scene where a grieving mother, driven by her loss and the unrest in Númenor, attacks Míriel. Instead of responding with force, Míriel asks, “What is your pain?”—a question that exemplifies true leadership. She then embraces the woman, sharing in her sorrow, and through this act of empathy, she diffuses a volatile situation.

This moment is strikingly reminiscent of the teachings of Jesus, who, even when attacked, chose compassion over retaliation. It’s a moment that shows the strength in humility—a strength that doesn’t seek to dominate but to heal. Míriel’s actions here are a testament to the kind of ruler she aspires to be, one who leads by serving, not by lording over others.

The Omen and the Power of Interpretation

As the ceremony progresses, an eagle appears—a sign traditionally seen as divine approval of Númenor’s new ruler. But this symbol of hope and blessing is quickly co-opted by Pharazôn, who seizes the moment for his own gain, twisting the omen to bolster his bid for power. Clad in red, Pharazôn steps forward, sword in hand, turning the sacred sign into a mere prop for his ambitions. The eagle, sensing the pride and deceit, flies away, leaving Númenor to grapple with its uncertain future.

This manipulation of divine signs is a classic example of pride at work. Pharazôn’s actions mirror those of many who, throughout history, have twisted religious and moral symbols to serve their own ends. It’s a powerful reminder of the dangers of interpreting signs to fit our desires rather than seeking the true meaning behind them.

A Lesson in Forgiveness and Reconciliation

The theme of humility versus pride is further explored in the reconciliation between Durin IV and his father, King Durin III. Their estrangement has not only darkened their relationship but has also cast a literal shadow over the dwarven kingdom, with the mirrors that once brought sunlight into the mines now shattered. The rift is a result of pride, a stubbornness that has left both dwarves—and their people—in darkness.

It takes the wisdom and intervention of Durin IV’s wife to convince him to set aside his pride for the greater good. In a powerful moment of humility, Durin IV asks his father for forgiveness, acknowledging their mutual stubbornness but also reaffirming his love and respect. This act of humility doesn’t weaken Durin IV; instead, it strengthens him, unfreezing the deadlock and allowing the light—both literal and metaphorical—to return to their world.

The Temptation of Pride in Eregion

As the episode reaches its climax, we are brought back to the forges of Celebrimbor in Eregion, where the master smith stands on the precipice of a monumental but perilous achievement. Celebrimbor, convinced that the mysterious Annatar is a messenger from the Valar, becomes consumed by his ambition to create something that will secure his legacy. Yet, this ambition is laced with pride, blinding him to the true nature of the forces at play.

Annatar, who we know is Sauron in disguise, expertly preys on Celebrimbor’s insecurities and aspirations. He subtly encourages the elf to prioritize his own greatness over the counsel of his peers, leading him to deceive the other elves in pursuit of his goals. This deception marks the beginning of Celebrimbor’s downfall. By allowing pride to overshadow humility, he unwittingly sets in motion a chain of events that will bring about devastating consequences—not only for himself but for all of Middle-earth.

In this scene, the symbolic use of color returns with profound significance. Annatar appears in white robes, symbolizing purity and humility—qualities that make him seem trustworthy and conceal the sinister darkness of his true intentions. This choice of color is a deliberate façade, designed to lure Celebrimbor into a false sense of security.

Meanwhile, Celebrimbor is adorned in red robes, a stark contrast that mirrors his inner turmoil. Like Pharazôn, who is similarly driven by pride, Celebrimbor’s red garments reflect the same dangerous arrogance. This pride leads him to deceive the High King of the Elves and exposes him to the corrupting influence of Sauron. The red and white in this scene serve as visual metaphors for the battle between humility and pride, and ultimately, for the choices that lead to Celebrimbor’s tragic fate.

The Real-World Relevance of Tolkien’s Themes

Tolkien’s stories, as reflected in this episode, are rich with moral and spiritual lessons that resonate far beyond the realms of Middle-earth. The battle between humility and pride is not just a fictional conflict; it’s a challenge we all face in our lives. Whether in politics, relationships, or personal ambitions, the temptation to let pride guide our decisions is ever-present. But as this episode beautifully illustrates, true greatness lies in humility—in the willingness to serve others, to listen, and to act with compassion and integrity.

As we navigate our own journeys, we would do well to remember the lessons of Númenor, Moria, and Eregion. Humility is not a weakness; it is a strength that builds bridges, heals wounds, and ultimately leads to true and lasting greatness.