The thing that gets me is really the age old question of why God permits such
suffering in his creation. Yes, you're right. It is essential that
Sam decides his quest *is* to destroy the Ring, not just "do for" Mr.
Frodo. I just hate to think it's "part of the divine plan" that
Frodo is hurt like this. Providence has already asked more than is fair
to ask from this one hobbit.
I think the best answer to the question is that, indeed,
horrendous things occur (with depressing frequency) in life and the response of
the survivors is where we see God manifest. Go
Sam.
"Well, I'm back," he said. The End.
