LEARN TAROT

IX. THE HERMIT

He is a solitary seeker for the knowledge that comes from within. Later, a guide.

Virgo. (Earth) — Service.

Introspection, searching, solitude, guidance.



Meaning

Inner knowledge. The need to be alone and tune in and listen to your gut instincts. A lonely wanderer in the path of the night, he searches for that which can only be gained with long periods of solitude - the inner voice. To hear it, he must disconnect from the crowds whose voices and desires threaten to overcome his own. The need for solitary reflection away from the influence and clutter of everyday life. Give yourself time for contemplation. Don't allow others to stand in your way. There’s value in time away from the hubbub of civic life, to relax the ego in communion with nature. He walks through the dark night of his unconscious, towards home, himself. Self-reflection, introspection, contemplation, withdrawal, solitude, search for self, true self, soul-searching, concealment, solitary reflection, inner wisdom, meditation, born of solitude. This period may feel lonely, but it will place you on the right path. Seek purpose.

Be able to recognize a teacher in a humble disguise. The level of spiritual knowledge that he attained, and that he is ready to impart that knowledge to everyone. Reflect and guide others around the themed situation. He has a deep commitment to his goal and a solid awareness of his path. Guide, mentor, humility, service. Or, someone may be coming into your life to mentor you.

Take action that is authentic and aligned with your true self. You are perhaps searching your inner soul for guidance on what is right, and where your next steps are to be. Think things through carefully. The demands on you have been high, giving you scant time for reflection. While you have a gift for understanding the larger implications involved, you need some private time to consider the steps to take in the future. You need long-term seclusion and time to assimilate and process, not just fifteen minutes and expecting profound solutions. Now may be the moment for you to tell everyone to leave you alone. When you are fully ready, you will be able and willing to give others what they need.

Other: It’s the perfectionist, Virgo. Devoted to the earth, health, discipline, and the body. It’s intelligent, analytical, and self-critical.

Reversed Meaning

Your seclusion may become harmful to both yourself and others. You may go mad; the unconscious is filled with images that he may not yet understand. You must learn to balance your need for truth with connection to other people. Don’t isolate yourself. Recluse. Return to society.

Loneliness, isolation, rejection. This can indicate a period of loneliness forced on you instead of one you’re initiating yourself. Try to make the most of it, clarify your goals and desires.

Lost your way. You may be resisting the process of evolving towards a level of wisdom that sets you apart. You could have a fear of loneliness in this. The shamanic method for facing fears is to relax and open. Let them in and allow them to have their way for a while. This way you know them fully and will see them pass of their own accord. When there are no more surprises, move into a place of empowered action.