Interpreting the Hermit Tarot Card

An introduction to the meaning of the Hermit tarot card

The Hermit tarot card represents withdrawal, introspection, deep thought, and soul searching, all of which arise when we are in a state of reflection, rather than action. The Hermit has experienced the world so as to be knowledgeable and endowed with his fair share of wisdom, and so he retreats from society itself in order to organize and understand the information he has stored in his mind. Mysterious and complex, thoughtful and reserved, the Hermit understands that one must separate himself from the exterior world if he is ever to fully grasp his position in it.

Experience is inherently subjective, convoluted and valued according to each person's individual interpretation of events, and only when the mind is clear of influence can it formulate absolute truths about existence and universal meaning. The Hermit finds peace in silence, truth in the stillness of inactivity, reassurance and purpose in the inner world of himself, and his careful contemplation provides him with a happiness that he has earned through patience and meditation.

The image of the Hermit has generally remained constant in the history of tarot card reading, always depicting an older male figure, cloaked in a long robe, and carrying a small, lit lantern. Old age has always been associated with wisdom and experience, for it is from our elders that we learn how to govern our own lives, and look to for advice in moments of doubt or crisis. The image of the Hermit is no exception, as his age is clearly that of a gentile, someone who has seen and analysed the world with a steady focus, and possesses a mind not blurred by the youthful downfalls of undirected passion, bloated pride, or impulsiveness. The Hermit is decisive and meticulous, following by the light of his lantern, he has planned his steps beforehand, and uses not only his lantern for guidance, but relies even more so upon the inner light of himself. His deep introspection feeds this light, illuminating and enlightening, never burning out while there are still questions of existence in need of answers.

It's meaning in a Tarot Card Spread

The Hermit tarot card - upright meaning:
When the Hermit card lands in the upright position it refers to a period of solitude. As is the case with therapy or a spiritual journey, there is a need to withdraw from social activities and look inward for answers. Regardless of the reason, time alone is needed to gain perspective.

The Hermit tarot card - reversed meaning:
When the Hermit card is in the upside-down/reversed position it reveals deliberate or forced isolation. Someone is intentionally hiding from public view or forcing another into seclusion. On the lighter side it may simply imply that someone has lost their way and has no desire for change.

Keywords/phrases associated with the Hermit tarot card:

Upright - solitude, privacy, social withdrawal, perspective, insight

Reversed - hiding, forced isolation, separation, lost, fear

Return from Hermit tarot card back to Reading Tarot Cards - The Major Arcana

or

Explore all things psychic - Home