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Upon arriving in the Grey Havens, Gandalf was greeted by the Elf Círdan, who recognized Gandalf’s potential and gifted him the Elven Ring of Fire, Narya. This act instigated Saruman's envy, which festered for centuries even before he succumbed to corruption. Initially, Saruman still aided the Free Peoples of Middle-earth but harbored latent jealousy towards Gandalf from their first encounters.
A quote from "Unfinished Tales" elaborates on how Saruman's contempt grew as he understood Gandalf's influence and power among the inhabitants of Middle-earth. Saruman's jealousy deepened over time, transforming into a more profound hatred as he perceived Gandalf's strength surpassing his own.