Is Middle-Earth connected to religion

[Bilbo]

This is just a random question. I've noticed that some people take everything Tolkein wrote as a sort of bible. Afterall, there is a very archaic method used in some books, especially the Silmarillion.
So, I was just wondering, does anyone think that Tolkein wrote LOTR with religion in mind? I know he's already said that he never wrote it as an alternative to religion, but I was wondering if he wrote it as a way of enforcing religion?
I've noticed that a number of players are clearly Jewish (me, Radagast the Brown), and I'm assuming that there are some religious Christians and Muslims here too. Do you notice that some characters in Middle-Earth can relate to religious figures?

ANY THOUGHTS PEOPLE?????

[Nurvingiel]

Unfortunately I don't think there are any Muslim Mooters, correct me if I'm wrong though. There's a lot of Christians, and one Hindu Mooter and one Buddhist Mooter, and as you mentioned at least two Jewish Mooters. There are also a lot of atheist/agnostic Mooters.

However, no matter what religion you're from, I don't think Tolkien intended LotR to replace or enforce religion, nor do I think it is an allegory for religion, war, or anything. :) (This is my opinion but the matter has been highly debated.)

I think Tolkien's own religion, (I think he was Catholic) influenced his writings, but I think LotR was written to be a detailed fantasy novel with a rich and interesting back story (the Sil).

[Pytt]

Agree with you Nurv. And Tolkien was a Catholic yes

[inked]

Pytt,
Tolkien addresses this in the LETTERS. You might want to refer to that. He remarks that LOTR was unconsciously (Roman) Catholic in the writing and consciously so in the revision, but he did not intend it as substitute or replacement. Also throughout the LETTERS he does remark on various characters in this regard in answer to questions from various persons.

I have a good site reference for these issues with a wealth of information from the RC perspective. I'll edit it back in when I locate it! :D

[inked]

Pytt,

the site is http://mythictruth.com/ . I think you'll find it very interesting and informative. Let me know! :)