The Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice Mason are the Twenty-four-inch Gauge and the Common Gavel.
The Twenty-four-inch Gauge is an instrument used by operative
masons to measure and lay out their work; but we, as Free and
Accepted Masons, are taught to make use of it for the more noble
and glorious purpose of dividing our time. Being divided into
twenty-four equal parts, it is emblematical of the twenty-four
hours of the day, which we are taught to divide into three equal
parts; whereby we have eight hours for the service of God and
distressed worthy Brethren, eight for our usual vocations, and
eight for refreshment and sleep.
The Common Gavel is an instrument used by operative masons to
break off the corners of rough stones, the better to fit them
for the builder's use; but we, as Free and Accepted Masons, are
taught to make use of it for the more noble and glorious purpose
of divesting our hearts and consciences of all the vices and superfluities
of this life, thereby fitting our minds, as living stones, for
that spiritual building-that house not made with hands-eternal
in the heavens.