Aulë is the Vala called the Smith in J.R.R. Tolkien’s mythology.
Aulë is associated with substance, craft, invention, and the shaping of the physical world. He helped prepare Arda under Eru Ilúvatar and became especially connected with metals, stone, and making. His desire to create led to the secret fashioning of the Dwarves before the Elves awoke.
When Eru confronted him, Aulë showed that he had created the Dwarves out of impatience rather than a wish to rival the Creator. Eru accepted the Dwarves but required them to remain asleep until after the Elves appeared. Aulë’s wife is Yavanna, the Vala connected with growing things and the natural world. He should not be confused with Manwë, ruler of the Valar, Ulmo, lord of waters, or Tulkas, the warrior spirit.