The Hermit stands alone on a snowy peak, holding up a lantern in which a star shines. He is solitude, introspection and wisdom found within: withdraw from noise, seek the truth, become your own light.
A lantern carried alone into the dark, wisdom found in solitude.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Prudence, circumspection; and especially treason, dissimulation, roguery, corruption.
Reversed
Reversed, solitude turns into isolation or is avoided: loneliness, withdrawal from life, or fear of being alone with yourself.
Solitude turned to loneliness, counsel refused.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Concealment, disguise, policy, fear, unreasoned caution.
In love
Upright A time alone, reflecting on what you want in love; or a quiet, mature, deep relationship.
Reversed Isolation, loneliness, or a partner who has closed themselves off.
In work
Upright Study, research, specialist work; a time to plan alone rather than to push.
Reversed Work that isolates you, or refusing advice that would help.
In money
Upright Spend carefully; a time to save and reflect on what truly matters.
Reversed Money worries kept to yourself, or excessive frugality.
At home and in the family
Upright A quiet home, solitude, perhaps living alone for a while; an older relative’s wisdom.
Reversed Cold distance between family members, or someone who has withdrawn.
On your path
Upright The inner journey: meditation, retreat, a teacher who shows the way, or becoming one.
Reversed You flee the silence that would heal you, or cling to solitude too long.
Its counsel
Upright Withdraw for a while. The answer is within you.
Reversed Come back among people. Solitude has taught you enough.
Correspondences
- Arcana
- Major Arcana, card 9
- Element
- Earth
- Number
- 9
Dreams that carry this card
The Raven · The Mountain · The Old One · The Stairs · The Candle
The Major Arcana
The Fool · The Magician · The High Priestess · The Empress · The Emperor · The Hierophant · The Lovers · The Chariot · Strength · Wheel of Fortune · Justice · The Hanged Man · Death · Temperance · The Devil · The Tower · The Star · The Moon · The Sun · Judgement · The World