Aulë is the fictional father of the Dwarves in J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium.
Aulë is one of the Valar, the powerful beings who help shape Arda under Eru Ilúvatar. Tolkien’s mythology presents him as a master of craft, metalwork, and the substances of the world. He creates the Seven Fathers of the Dwarves because he longs for pupils who can learn his skills.
Aulë makes the Dwarves before the awakening of the Elves, but he cannot give them independent life by his own power. When Eru confronts him, Aulë submits and prepares to destroy his creations. Eru then grants them life, while requiring that they remain asleep until after the Elves awaken.
This story explains the Dwarves’ place in Tolkien’s creation myth and their strong association with craftsmanship. Aulë is sometimes confused with Manwë, the chief of the Valar, or with Ulmo, the Vala associated with waters. His spouse is Yavanna, whose concern for growing things leads to the creation of the Ents’ shepherds.