The approaching Elves sang to Elbereth, who was Valda, the most powerful of the female Valar. The song invokes the power of Valda and calls her attention to the devotee who uttered the prayer. It was inimical against the forces of evil. The Black Rider would have also sensed the presence of Gildor Inglorion and other High Elves who had once lived in Valinor and were, therefore, too powerful for him to withstand alone.