An order of five wizards sent to Middle-earth by the Valar in the Third Age to guide the free peoples against Sauron. The Istari are Maiar - lesser Ainur - cloaked in mortal form and forbidden from using their full power to dominate. Gandalf and Saruman are the most prominent members. Their mission is to counsel and inspire, not to rule.

A council of the Wise - Elven lords, wizards, and other powerful figures - formed to coordinate resistance against Sauron's growing shadow. Its members include Gandalf, Saruman, Elrond, and Galadriel. Saruman is its head, though Galadriel wished Gandalf to lead. The Council's effectiveness is undermined by Saruman's secret ambitions.