[doubled]

Maybe we should approach Tom from another direction. If Goldberry is the Riverman's Daughter, who is the Riverman? My guess would be the Valar in charge of water(Oreme, I think, but I have no references here). That would make her at least of the Maiar. Therefore, Tom must be at that level , also. I have seen references to other stories of Tom Bombidil, a book or such, but I haven't read them so I don't know if they offer a clue.

[HairOfTheDog]

Goldbery is the River-daughter... no riverman involved. Not that the distinction helps understand what she is ;~D