Gavels and mauls are common Stonemasons tools which have a place in Masonic Ceremony. The Common Gavel is a working tool used by stonemasons to rough it over the stone.
Freemasons give these tools a moral dimension which has a connection to their practical use. In this instance, the Gavel represents the force of conscience which should keep down all vain and unbecoming thoughts which might intrude so that our thought and actions may ascend to the Throne of Grace.
The common gavel is also used in the lodge, by the Worshipful Master and the Senior and Junior Wardens, to keep order in the lodge and indicate the level, degree, or ceremony in which the lodge is operating.
The Maul Is often referred to by Stone Masons as a Setting Maul and used by stonemasons to ‘knock’ the blocks of stone into position. Being of a less hard face than the stone it does not damage the surface.
It is also used with a chisel to finish the stone by carving the stone and give a more final and finished surface. Masonically, it is principally only referred to in the 3rd or Raising degree when describing the mode of death of the principle architect of King Solomon’s temple.
Auctioneer’s or Judge’s Gavel – Lightweight, rounded-end gavels, commonly used by auctioneers and judges, and at public meetings. They have no technical connection with stonemasonry and are therefore not with Freemasonry. While they would be inappropriate for use in a Masonic lodge room, they could be used at the Festive board.