The Gavels of Freemasonry
Freemasons have two Gavels. One is the Master's Gavel, symbol of authority that must be wisely used to preserve harmony within the Lodge. The other is the Working Tool of the Entered Apprentice.
In either sense the Gavel is of ancient origin and honourable history.As a symbol of authority, the gavel always has ruled deliberative assemblies. From the gathering of a neighborhood sewing club, to legislatures, supreme courts, presidents and monarchs. The gavel brings order and obedience.
Handing the gavel to another transfers, for the time, the authority of the one who originally held it. A Master of a Lodge is an autocrat while in possession of his Gavel. The Grand Master does not actually take over a Lodge until the Master yields his Gavel.
Our other Gavel, that of the Entered Apprentice, is for the workmen to employ in their labours. It approaches in importance the Gavel of authority. In one sense it is as important as the other Gavel, for no Master may open a Lodge unless the workmen are present. He cannot preside and supervise the work unless the workmen are at their labours. He cannot be successful in his conduct of the Lodge and his supervision of the work unless the workmen are co-operative. Even as autocratic as his power may be he can not drive them to their labours.In either case the Gavel must always be wisely used and in the best interest of the lodge.
Source: 3-5-7 Minute Talks on Freemasonry by Elbert Bede.
