A Rite, within the context of
Freemasonry
Freemasonry (sometimes spelled Free-Masonry) consists of fraternal groups that trace their origins to the medieval guilds of stonemasons. Freemasonry is the oldest secular fraternity in the world and among the oldest still-existing organizati ...
, 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. For a system of Masonic degrees to be named rite, it must encompass the first three
blue lodge craft degrees, either as degrees within the rite or as a prerequisite for joining the rite. In essence, a Masonic rite occupies a central position in the trajectory of a Mason's journey, serving as the vehicle through which Masonic teachings and lessons are imparted.
Authority and Control
Except for rare exceptions, Masonic rites are most of the time under the control of
Grand Lodge
A Grand Lodge, also called Grand Orient, Obedience, or by another similar title, is a name for the overarching governing body of a fraternal or other similarly organized group in a given area, usually a city, state, or country.
In Freemasonry
A ...
s for the first three degrees then under the control of a concordant body for any
upper degrees.
The most practiced rite in the world from the Entered Apprentice degree is the
Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
Masonic rites
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. In his 1861 book "''Tuileur Général De La Francmaçonnerie Ou Manuel De L'initié''", Jean-Marie Ragon lists 52 Masonic Rites and over 1400 degrees.
[ pp.335-378]
Currently Practiced Masonic Rites
Historical Rites that are believed to No Longer be Practiced
Masonic Orders
Masonic Academies
Diffusion of Rites (Blue Lodge level)
Europe
France
Italy
North America
United States
Color Key:
* background indicates Single Ritual Jurisdiction
* background indicates Multiple Ritual Jurisdiction
Notes:
* All jurisdictions allow AASR and York Rite as upper degrees after the Blue Lodge level
* The Pennsylvania Rite is a unique variation of the Ancient Ritual
* The District of Columbia has the most diverse selection of approved rituals
* Special dispensations may exist in certain jurisdictions for specific lodges
Masonic Rite Origins
A key feature that distinguishes these rites is their relationship with the
blue lodge degrees. Some rites incorporate these degrees directly, while others require them as prerequisites. The diversity of rites reflects the rich historical development of Freemasonry across different cultures and regions.
Authority and Control
Most Masonic rites operate under a dual control structure:
* First three degrees are typically under the control of
Grand Lodge
A Grand Lodge, also called Grand Orient, Obedience, or by another similar title, is a name for the overarching governing body of a fraternal or other similarly organized group in a given area, usually a city, state, or country.
In Freemasonry
A ...
s
* Upper degrees are usually managed by concordant bodies
See also
*
Scottish Rite
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry is a List of Masonic rites, rite within the broader context of Freemasonry. It is the most widely practiced List of Masonic rites, Rite in the world. In some parts of the world, and in the ...
*
Chamber of Reflection
*
Grand College of Rites
*
Ancient and Primitive Rite
*
French Rite
*
National Mexican Rite
*
Rectified Scottish Rite
The Rectified Scottish Rite historically known under the RER acronyme, also known as the Rectified Rite or rarely RSR, is a Christian Masonic rite with a long and complex history. It was founded in 1778 at the Convent of Lyon in France under the ...
*
Rite of Baldwyn
*
Ancient and Primitive Rite
*
Masonic myths
References
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Freemasonry
Masonic organizations