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The Hermit Tarot Card Meaning
The Hermit: The Light of Inner Wisdom
Upright keywords
Soul-searching, introspection, guidance, solitude
Reversed keywords
Isolation, loneliness, withdrawal, paranoia
Symbolism
An old, cloaked man stands alone on a mountaintop, holding a lantern containing a shining six-pointed star (the Seal of Solomon). He looks down, offering his wisdom to those below who seek it. His staff represents his power and authority, grounded in his journey.
The Hermit upright meaning
Card number 9, The Hermit represents a necessary period of introspection, soul-searching, and withdrawal from the outer world. He is a guide who has walked the path and now carries his own inner light. This card advises you to turn inward, to seek answers in solitude, and to find your own truth away from the noise of society. It is a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
It is time for introspection and seeking inner guidance. The Hermit encourages you to step back from the noise of daily life to find your own truth. Wisdom comes from within.
The Hermit reversed meaning
Reversed, The Hermit can signify forced isolation, loneliness, and a fear of looking within. You may be withdrawing too much, cutting yourself off from helpful guidance, or conversely, you may be too afraid to be alone and are avoiding the necessary introspection. It can also point to paranoia or feeling lost.
Isolation, loneliness, or avoiding self-reflection. You may be withdrawing too much from the world or are afraid to face your inner truth.
The Hermit in a reading
How the card reads in each position of a past, present and future spread.
Past position
Upright: A period of solitude or soul-searching in your past provided you with a key piece of wisdom that is relevant now. You learned something important by being alone.
Reversed: A past period of forced isolation or loneliness has made you wary of being alone now, even when introspection is needed.
Present position
Upright: You need to take a step back from the external world. The answer you seek is not outside, but within. It is time for introspection and quiet contemplation.
Reversed: You are feeling isolated and lonely, rather than productively solitary. You may be avoiding looking inward out of fear of what you might find.
Future position
Upright: The future will call for a period of solitude and introspection. You will need to withdraw to find your own inner guidance and light your own path forward.
Reversed: Be careful of becoming too withdrawn or isolated in the future. There is a difference between healthy solitude and cutting yourself off from support.