The Hermit, numbered IX in the Major Arcana, represents inner reflection, solitude, contemplation, and the search for deeper spiritual understanding through withdrawal from the distractions of daily life.
The Hermit card depicts an old hooded man holding a staff in one hand and a lit lantern in the other, walking alone on a dark path. The lantern’s light signifies inner illumination, and the staff represents wisdom and experience. His gray beard represents a lifetime of knowledge. The mountains behind him promise inner revelation if he perseveres in seeking truth.
Upright, the Hermit represents the spiritual need to periodically retreat inward to contemplate life’s mysteries and illuminate the truth of your innermost self.
Reversed, the Hermit loses connection with their inner light and withdraws not for self-discovery but out of psychological isolation and rejection of spiritual wisdom.
When the Hermit appears upright, it signals a need to retreat from the noisy demands of the world to reconnect with your inner truths. Temporarily withdraw into solitude to meditate deeply on your path ahead and address lingering questions through soul-searching. The insights gained will reveal your next wise steps.
However, reversed the Hermit warns against becoming so isolated you lose meaningful connection and neglect important self-examination. Awaken from excessive withdrawal and reengage mindfully.
Upright, the Hermit reflects a stage on the spiritual path marked by deeper dive into esoteric wisdom away from society’s storied beliefs. Seek those who walked the path before you and honor the silence within while pursuing mystic truths.
Reversed cautions to avoid rejecting organized religion to the point of disconnecting from all spiritual community or teachings. Maintain an open mind and heart while on your solitary inner pilgrimage.
Professionally, the upright Hermit indicates value in occasionally retreating from constant activity to contemplate next directions. Solitude fuels creativity. Financially, avoid overspending on external pursuits; find richness within.
However, reversed, withdrawal may be avoiding career issues that require fresh strategies. Reengage with trusted colleagues to brainstorm solutions. Finances also need active monitoring to avoid mismanagement.
Upright, the Hermit brings times to temporarily retreat from relationships’ demands into nurturing solitude, while staying available to partners. Absence can feed intimacy.
Reversed warns disconnection from loved ones is harming the bond. Isolation likely results from relationship problems or personal struggles. Reach out andverbalize needs.
Reflect on these questions inspired by the Hermit:
The Hermit arrives to guide you inward to discover your inner light. Withdraw to contemplate, then return with gifts for the world.
The reversed Hermit often represents withdrawal not for inner renewal but out of psychological isolation and disconnection from spiritual community. While temporary solitude is necessary, long-term rejecting of worldly connection and spiritual guidance creates suffering. The reversed Hermit’s lantern light grows dim, leaving them lost in darkness, unable to illuminate inner truth.
Excessive isolation is often rooted in pain and distrust of others. However, refusing spiritual teaching further cuts you off fromtransformational wisdom. To reverse the Hermit, reflect on what wounds drive you from community and divine connection. Then begin taking small steps to increase spiritual practice and exchanges with those who nourish your soul. Integrate valuable teachings to help understand your journey. Therein you will rediscover the light within, which never leaves us but sometimes needs dusting off.