As told in the tale of Adanel, it is believed, as a myth among some Men, that the short life and mortality of Men was not their original fate, but obtained as a result of Divine Punishment for turning away from Ilúvatar's teachings and worshipping Morgoth. Many accept that this tale is not entirely true and may be a result of Men's unwillingness to accept their fate. However, it can be theorised that Men's original fate (before their punishment) was not immortality in Arda, but the freedom to die at will, rather than being bound by a limited lifespan. This is consistent with the explanation of the Gift of Men, and would explain how it was tainted.