Up: [[Major Arcana]] Created: 2026-10-02 Updated: 2026-10-09 > [!leaf] In Brief > Solitude for the purpose of developing inner wisdom or addressing inner needs; introspection; contemplation; a sage or mentor > [!Leaf] What Matters The Hermit is both a seeker and a guide. (S)he retreats into solitude in order to turn inward for exploration and contemplation of the dark reaches of the unconscious and the deeper meaning of life. The hermit walks a path of self-discovery, striving to be authentic by ignoring the opinions of others in order to hear and align with the whispers of soul. He’s then able to use that wisdom to guide others to a deeper understanding of who they are, not necessarily through direct teaching but by being a living example and perhaps by asking good questions. Therapists, mentors and spiritual guides are real life examples of the hermit archetype. > [!leaf] Shadow Solitude taken to the point of isolation is a shadow quality of the Hermit. So is believing that solitude will automatically produce a spiritual experience and becoming smug about your wisdom. | ![[Hermit RWS.webp\|300]] | ![[Hermit Star Tarot.webp\|300]] | | ------------------------- | -------------------------------- | *Rider Waite Smith* on left; *Star Tarot* on right #### Lantern The lighted lantern has been interpreted in a number of ways: as wisdom shining in the darkness for others; as someone who sees the world through his or her own light; as light to pierce spiritual darkness, and as a symbol of the spark of divinity in us, Jung’s definition of [[The Self]]. The light itself is a six-pointed star, or Solomon’s Seal, formed by interlaced triangles. The upward-pointing one is physical or fire or yang; the downward pointing one is spiritual or water or yin. Together, they form a union of opposites, and represent insight and wholeness. The lantern is held in the Hermit’s right hand to signify conscious awareness. Notice that the lantern only lights the immediate path ahead. It takes time and focus to illuminate what has been hidden. Earliest versions of the card were known as ‘Time’ and depicted Saturn, also known as Father Time, holding an hourglass. #### Person The Hermit is the archetype of the Wise Old Man or, portrayed less often, the Wise Old Woman or [[Crone]]. He often has a white beard to show experience and that he is in life’s third act. ![[Hermit Tarot of the Abyss.webp|200]] *Tarot of the Abyss* The grey robe is considered by *Spiritual Tarot* to reflect the resolution of all opposites. The robe is reminiscent of those worn by Capuchin friars, suggesting that a simple and austere lifestyle may enhance spiritual development. The hermit’s left hand holds the staff of intellect and higher knowledge. *Spiritual Tarot* Esoteric and philosophical studies can help to open inner awareness. #### Environment In almost all tarot decks, the hermit is in a snowy environment. Winter is the season for inner journeys. And, as *Tarot for Change* suggests, it is significant that the hermit is pictured walking. *He is at peace with the fluid state of reality — changing and being stuck; expanding and contracting; evolving and devolving; living and dying.* > [!leaf] Actions 1. Consciously withdraw from everyday life in order to reflect on the path you’re on and whether or not it feels right for you. If you’re dealing with an issue, contemplate what that issue can teach you that would promote your spiritual or psychological growth. If possible make your retreat a whole day or longer, spent unplugged. 2. If faced with a challenge you can’t solve, try a mini-’retreat’. Hold the problem lightly in mind and do something that isn’t mentally demanding, such as doing the dishes, taking a shower, or weeding the garden. Let your mind wander, but stay aware of your body’s sensations. Don’t worry if the solution doesn’t come right away. Eventually it will. 3. Look for inner guidance in [[Dreams]], [[Expressive Art]], meditation and [[Active Imagination]]. 4. Journal or freewrite responses to any of these questions or quotes: - What questions do I have that can only be answered by me? - When I seek advice, what kinds of questions am I asking of others and who do I go to as a mentor? - What life issues, questions or creative projects do I find are best contemplated in silence? - Under what conditions do I feel most at peace? > [!Orbit] Lao Tzu > The inward traveler finds everything he seeks within himself. This is the highest form of travel. > [!Orbit] Hermann Hesse > I have been and still am a seeker, but I have ceased to question stars and books; I have begun to listen to the teaching my blood whispers to me. > [!orbit] Emily Dickinson > I am out with lanterns, looking for myself. > [!Orbit] Saint Francis > You are that which you are seeking. > [!Orbit] Blaise Pascal > All men’s miseries derive from not being able to sit quietly in a room alone. > [!leaf] Connection to Other Cards The [[2 - High Priestess]] relies on intuitive ways of knowing. The Hermit makes conscious evaluations. The [[5 - Hierophant]] provides direct teaching of wisdom through the ages. The Hermit uses his own direct experience to teach us to follow our own unique path. [[Angeles Arrien]] says that the four nines of the [[Minor Arcana]] are aspects of the Hermit. States of contemplation and introspection will always have us confront the inner critic or judge which is reflected by the [[9 of Swords]] (self-cruelty). Once we are able to face, embrace, and confront the critical nature within, the rewards are emotional happiness [[9 of Cups]], spiritual strength [[9 of Wands]] and gain in all aspects of our external life [[9 of Pentacles]]. > [!Leaf] Hermit Spread Ideas From *Pathworking the Tarot* The lantern shines the light of truth in places where there’s a need for healing and clearing. To find those places put the Hermit card face up in front of you, and shuffle the deck while asking, “What areas of my current life need to be healed, forgiven and let go of?” Card 1 - what needs to be healed? Card 2 - what needs to be forgiven? Card 3 - what needs to be cut loose? From *Tarot Wisdom* 1. What is the Hermit’s secret? 2. What is the Hermit’s light? 3. What does it reveal? 4. What questions does the Hermit want us to ask?