A Rite, within the context of Freemasonry, refers to a comprehensive system of degrees that hold the capability to initiate and advance a newcomer through various stages of Masonic knowledge and experience.
In some cases, a Master Mason can be invited to join a different rite after having reached Mastery to further his knowledge.
[1] Except for rare exceptions, Masonic rites are most of the time under the control of Grand Lodges for the first three degrees then under the control of a concordant body for any upper degrees.
[4] Over time, a number of different Masonic degree systems have been developed, some of which are still in use, and others which have now ceased to exist.
The diversity of rites reflects the rich historical development of Freemasonry across different cultures and regions.