The Hermit
Major Arcana • Card 9
The Hermit represents the search for inner truth through solitude, introspection, and the withdrawal from the noise of the world.
Key Concepts
Upright
- • Soul-searching
- • Introspection
- • Solitude
- • Inner guidance
- • Mentorship
- • Wisdom
Reversed
- • Isolation
- • Loneliness
- • Withdrawal
- • Paranoia
- • Refusing advice
Visual Symbolism
The Six-Pointed Star Lantern
The Seal of Solomon, a symbol of divine wisdom. The Hermit carries his light to guide his own path and others.
The Staff
Symbolizes the conscious mind and the "support" the Hermit uses as he navigates the difficult "mountains" of life.
The Grey Cloak
Represents the Hermit's withdrawal from the material world and his focus on the spiritual over the physical.
The Mountain Peak
Shows that the Hermit has achieved a high state of consciousness and is willing to stay there until his search is complete.
General Interpretation
Upright
The Hermit is a sign that it is time for a "time out." It tells you that the answer you seek is not in a book or another person, but deep within your own soul.
Reversed
Reversed, the Hermit can signify that you have spent too much time alone and are becoming isolated or lonely. You may be hiding from the world.
Specific Contexts
General Advice
The Hermit is number 9 (completion of a cycle). He is the "Wisdom" of the Tarot. He tells you to turn off the lights and listen to your still, small voice.
💕 Love
Upright: Taking a break from dating to find yourself. In a relationship, it can mean a period of "quiet" where both partners are focusing on their own paths.
Reversed: Feeling lonely even when with a partner. Withdrawal as a way to avoid conflict, or becoming "too independent" to connect with another.
💼 Career
Upright: A period of deep research or working on a solo project. Seeking the advice of a mentor who is "above" the day-to-day office drama.
Reversed: Returning to the "noise" of the workplace too soon. Or, feeling like a "lone wolf" at work who is unable to collaborate with others.
✨ Advice
Upright: "Look within." Withdraw from the world for a moment. The truth is already inside you, but you need silence to hear it. Trust your own inner light.
Reversed: "Stop hiding." You have found your truth, now it's time to bring it back to the world. Don't let your introspection turn into isolation.
The Fool's Journey Note
The Fool sees a light in the distance and realizes it is a hermit. He learns that the most important part of the journey is the one he takes alone.