The Aratar
The Aratar (Sindarin for 'exalted') or the High Ones of Arda were the eight greatest of the Valar.
In descending order of power the Aratar were Manwë, Varda, Ulmo, Yavanna, Aulë, Mandos, Nienna, and Oromë. Melkor had been the most powerful of all, but was removed from the order upon his rebellion. Although Tulkas was a Vala who lived in Valinor, he was not one of the Aratar.
Other names
The Aratar were also referred to as the Eight, the Holy Ones of Arda, and the Máhani.
References
- The Silmarillion: Quenta Silmarillion
- The History of Middle-earth, Vol. XI: The War of the Jewels, Part 4, Index