The Hermit
9
Rules: Virgo
Exaltation: Mercury
Planetary Association: Mercury
Color: Yellow-Green
As a Yes or No question: Yes
Upright: Wise Sage, Wisdom, Insight, Inner Guidance, Spiritual Completion, Sage, Prophet, Humanitarian, Self-awareness, A Walk at Night, Introspection, Solitude, Retreat, Astrophysicist, Scientist, Master, Seeker of Knowledge and Esoteric Knowledge, Analytical, Thoughtful, Deep, Insight, Quiet, Peace and Quiet
Reversed: Self Pity, Self Doubt, Not Learning, Repeating Mistakes, Lack of Foresight, Isolation, Depression, Withdrawl, Loneliness
The Hermit Symbolism
An old man in a gray cloak holds up a lantern and walks with a tall walking stick. The landscape is barren because he is focusing on only the light. He is truly on a spiritual quest. His beard is white and long, which infers his wisdom is vast. He also does not care what his appearance looks like anymore. He has more important things to do. The material world of beauty does not apply to him. The lantern he holds has a visible star. The universe guides his way and provides for him. To reach the heavens all he has to do is look before him. We are all part of the universe and come from the stars. The background is a darker blue, which fades into white. Dark blue symbolisms communication and enlightenment, especially when we move towards white.
In a way, he is almost like the fool again, but this time he has gained knowledge. The fools pack has turned into the hermit’s lantern, shining the way even in the dark. Much is to be gained on this quest for further self-awareness. Self-awareness will only spring from this endeavor.
Strength Upright Summary
When you get the Hermit in a reading, you may want to spend some time alone. This is not a time of loneliness, but of a time where being alone is necessary.He is introspective, keen, and logical. He wants to analyze everything around him as it gives light. To get the answers we seek, we have to start by looking inward. Shut out your distractions so that you may discover the wisdom within.
Although our support systems are incredible, sometimes outside influences are the opposite of what we need. It’s time to walk a journey alone to find the help we are looking for. And no this isn’t to “isolate” in the same way that depression is isolating. It isn’t a time to meditate, journal and take on some serious self-reflection. Support systems are wonderful, but oftentimes they sugar coat truths, to spare our feelings. You need to look in the mirror and see your own hard truths.
Past
The Hermit in the Past position represents prior solitude and rest after a long journey. You might have learned a big life lesson recently and you need time alone to reflect. Spending time to ourselves is good, even if this isn’t what we want. Sometimes we desire friendship, companionship, and relationships. Surviving through times of loneliness makes us stronger and more interesting as people. You have time to become yourself, and not be influenced by others.
Present
The Hermit in the present position means you’ve got to look within for answers. You know all you need, you just need to contemplate for a short amount of time. Like an ancient astronomer trying to work out the fabric of the universe; you have all the tools you need, you just need to work on your own thoughts and perception. Many great discoveries were made by people on their own, through the lack of distraction in their lives, they were able to concentrate fully on their tasks.
Future
The Hermit in the future position means one of two things. You could have thought about what is troubling you for long enough to make a realization and go on with your life, or you might be reaching this point very soon.
Reversed Summary
Repeating your past mistakes and not learning from our own history and the mistakes of those we trust around us. This can indicate a lack of wisdom. You may be doing things without thinking of the consequences. You may be feeling self-pity and self-doubt. You need time to withdraw from society, friends, and family, which is not the best option, but it’s how you feel presently. You are suffering from loneliness and isolation. It can also indicate the extremes of solitude – like being some sort of creepy recluse. Don’t lock yourself away. It gets mighty lonely on that mountain top.
The Hermit reversed suffers from hypochondria. He or she may think that every little spot or mark is a sign of death.
A Song for the Hermit
Cover Art by Micah Ulrich