Answer:
In the context of the story "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, "un rite" refers to a ritual or a customary practice. The fox uses the term to describe the process of taming, which involves establishing a ritual or a set of customary actions and behaviors that create a deep and meaningful connection between two individuals.
In the fox's opinion, this ritual or process of taming is necessary because it allows people to form genuine and unique friendships or bonds with others. The fox believes that these rituals or customs, which involve spending time together, getting to know each other, and building trust and affection, are what make individuals special and important to each other.
By going through the process of taming and establishing these rituals, individuals become uniquely significant to one another. It's through this taming process that they can overcome their loneliness and experience the depth of true friendship and connection. The fox emphasizes the importance of these rituals because they help create lasting and meaningful relationships.