What does the cryptic crossword clue "Tolkien beings pursuing punishment for porcupines? (7)" mean?

The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). ROD (synonym="punishment, as in “spare the rod”") + ENTS (synonym="sentient tree-creatures in The Lord of the Rings") = RODENTS The answer is RODENTS.

Tolkien beings pursuing punishment for porcupines? (7)

Guardian Cryptic #29582 | 28 Across | 2025-01-03 flower

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