Zodiac and Tarot: What Does 'The Hermit' Really Mean?
The Hermit is the ninth trump (IX) in the traditional tarot deck, also known as the ninth Major Arcana card. It corresponds to Virgo in the 6th house ruled by Mercury, making it one of the most cautious and detail-oriented cards in the deck. If you’re curious about what this card truly reveals, let’s dive in!
What's in The Hermit Tarot Deck
The imagery on The Hermit card features a grey-robed elder standing atop a snowy mountain, holding a lantern with a six-pointed star and a staff. Each detail carries symbolic meaning:
- Overall Color Tone – Cool and muted shades represent isolation and a retreat from the conscious into the subconscious.
- The Elder – A solitary figure, eyes closed, focused inward. His white robe reflects humility and detachment from vanity.
- The Lantern – A symbol of guidance.
- The Six-Pointed Star – Known as the Star of David or Solomon’s Seal, it unites two triangles, symbolizing the balance of opposites, harmony, and wisdom.
- The Staff – Represents the element of fire. It supports the Hermit’s journey, symbolizing willpower and determination.
What Does The Hermit Tarot Card Mean?
Living apart from the world yet independent, detached yet engaged. The Hermit Tarot card is the embodiment of solitude, wise and compassionate. Choosing to cultivate oneself in solitude, one can only hear the voice of one's own heart in silence, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of one's thoughts and discovering the true ultimate goal that belongs to oneself.
The Hermit Meaning (Upright)
When this card is upright, you may experience a period of solitude. You can use this time for personal reflection or to deepen your relationships. You may become more introspective, understanding your needs and desires in this relationship.
When it comes to finance, you may care less about owning a lot of things, understand your finances better, and make smarter decisions.
When it comes to your career, you can stop and think about your journey so far. You can also make long-term plans, pay more attention to details, stay realistic, set ambitious goals, and achieve success through your own efforts.
The Hermit Tarot in Reversed
When you draw the reversed Hermit Tarot card, it may suggest that you and your partner need to give each other some space or avoid certain relationship issues. Even if both people are trying to make the relationship work, one person might still feel lonely. The Hermit card suggests that now is a good time to pause and examine your interaction patterns. Try to reach out proactively. Maybe you need to pay more attention to yourself, be more caring, and understand yourself better to improve your relationship.
When it comes to finance, you might not pay as much attention to your finances, or you might not want to face the truth. You might also be ready to get help from someone outside. You may need to cut back on unnecessary spending and be careful with your finances.
When it comes to your job, you might feel nervous, have trouble focusing, or not do as well as you usually do. You might also underestimate other people's experience and make mistakes because you're too confident.
Conclusion
The Hermit isn't just about being alone; it's about purposeful solitude. Whether upright or reversed, this card encourages you to think carefully, gain wisdom, and take action. Remember that the best advice often comes from within.