>>96094426
In Tolkiens christian worldview, humans are flawed creatures that can be drawn to sin, but also be ennobled by higher powers.
His elves had the purpose (as stated by their creator) to steward, help, teach and ennoble humans, making them better versions of themselves, and then passing on.
His elves were never perfect, but certainly still better than the average human in many ways, physically, mentally, spiritual. As something for humans to look up to, an ideal to fashion themselves after. A more spiritual, moral, idealistic image to aspire to.