 However, despite Aulë's efforts, Ilúvatar knew of the Dwarves' creation.When confronted by Ilúvatar, Aulë confessed his deed and raised his hammer to destroy his creations.However, Ilúvatar, seeing that they had been made not out of malice or wickedness, stayed Aulë's hand and sanctified the dwarves, though he did not allow them to "awake" before the Elves (whom he had designated as "The Firstborn").