Valacirca

'Sickle of the Gods', one of the constellations set in the heavens by Varda to enlighten the awakening of the elves and gathered by Varda from among the ancient stars (Silmarillion, Chap. 3; cf. MR 71, 160). Other constellations were Wilwarin, Telumendil, Soronúmë, Anarríma and [Menelmacar]] (or Telumehtar).

Valacirca is by far the most important constellation in the heavens of Arda. It is also the first to appear in the mythology that J.R.R. Tolkien begun to develop in the 1910's.

Valacirca can be identified with the Great Bear or, more precisely, the Plough with its seven stars, often referred to in the writings of Tolkien.

Another name-form: Valakirka

Other names: the Seven Stars, the Silver Sickle, Sickle of the Gods, Burning Briar, also: Silver Bear, Silver Wain

Other names in Elvish languages: Edegil, Otselen

--Tik 11:27, 12 Jun 2005 (EDT)