Meneltarma, the Pillar of the Heavens, was a sacred place of Eru Il\xfavatar. When anyone approached the summit, three eagles would alight upon three rocks near to its western edge, keeping watch upon the sacred place. They were believed to have been sent from Aman to be guardians against those who would do the holy place harm. During the times of the Three Prayers the eagles would not descend, but would remain in the sky and hover above all those present at the ceremony.