The Hermit Tarot Card Meanings

Pamela Coleman Smith, 1909.

The Hermit Keywords: Introspection, Being Alone, Wisdom, Guidance

The Hermit Tarot Card Description

Wearing a long, grey, travelling cloak, The Hermit stands alone on a snowy mountain peak. In his right hand he holds up a lantern lit by a 6-pointed star and he holds a staff in his left. When we gaze upon him, we see a wise man who is at peace.

The Hermit has journeyed alone to the mountaintop. It takes perseverance, strength of character, and also physical and mental strength to reach a mountain peak. The sky around him is the colour of twilight and the lantern guides the way. Just as shepherds use staffs to guide their flocks and Catholic bishops carry them to symbolize their role as ‘shepherds’ of their congretations, the staff carried by The Hermit is a symbol of guidance and support.

What The Hermit Means In A Tarot Reading

The Hermit offers wisdom and guidance. I find that, most often, you’ll be the one receiving advice and guidance from someone wise. You should listen to this advice. It’s what you need to hear and it’s the right advice for you at this time. However, it may also be you that is guiding someone, sharing your wisdom and experience. The lantern in The Hermit’s hand shows the way through the darkness. He shines a light on the problem and lights your way forward. Notice also if any cards in the spread are being ‘lit’ by the light of the lantern. These may provide clues to your way forward and what is to come.

The Hermit embraces solitude. Like The Hermit, it may be important that you spend some time alone. Focusing on yourself will bring you self-awareness. Meditation, reflection, and quiet contemplation will bring you answers. The Hermit has withdrawn from society. You should also focus on your inner world. Minimizing distracting influences will help you to focus on what is important in your life. You may need this time to complete a project or to solve a problem that has been bothering you. Turn your attention inwards, to your thoughts and feelings. Explore your inner world for answers.

The Hermit Love and Relationships Tarot Meaning

This isn’t a good time to seek a new relationship. You need to focus on yourself and your emotions before giving to others.

If you’re already in a relationship, you may feel the need to spend some time alone to recharge your batteries. This doesn’t mean leaving your partner. It simply means that you may need to focus on your inner world. Take some time each day for self-care and reflection. This will bring you peace.

The Hermit Career Tarot Meaning

Listen to the advice of someone more experienced than yourself. This person is offering you assistance out of pure motives. There is no hidden agenda. If they’re willing to mentor, you should accept their help.

The Hermit Correspondences & Attributions

Earth
Mercury
Virgo