What does the "Masonic Gavel" symbolize?

The Masonic Gavel symbolizes the authority of the Worshipful Master within the lodge. In Masonic traditions, the gavel is a tool used to call the lodge to order and to maintain decorum during meetings. It represents the Master's ability to direct the proceedings and make decisions that guide the course of the gathering. The Worshipful Master wields the gavel as a symbol of leadership and governance, reflecting their responsibility to foster harmony and ensure that the members conduct themselves in a manner befitting the values of Freemasonry.

This understanding aligns with the structure and protocols of Masonic lodges, where order and respect for leadership are essential. The gavel’s role as a ceremonial tool further emphasizes the importance of authority and the orderly progression of rituals and initiatives within the lodge.