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The Hermit is considered one of the most mystical and ambiguous cards in the Tarot world. At first glance at this arcana, a тревожное чувство arises in the soul. The image of an старец, освещающий свой путь фонарем, вызывает ощущение одиночества. It seems that this card does not portend anything positive in the querent’s life. However, in reality, The Hermit holds a deep meaning that must be known if you want to receive a valuable совет and answers to your questions.
The card in the deck is numbered 9. It can be found under other names: Pilgrim, Sage, and Seeker. The Hermit is also called Затворник, Монах, Старец, and Диоген with a lantern.
The Ninth Arcana teaches that you should always stay true to yourself and try to find your place in this dark world. The lantern symbolizes knowledge and the light of truth, the staff – a strong character, the beard – accumulated wisdom over the years, and snow – the beginning of life from a clean page. The meaning of The Hermit in Tarot depends on the spread. When divining, it is important to pay attention to which cards appear together with the ninth arcana and in what position it is. Knowing all the nuances will help correctly interpret the sign of fate and make the right decision.
Tarot The Hermit: combinations with other cards
To correctly interpret the Major Arcana, it is necessary to study its surroundings. Adjacent cards can give the Old Man a completely different interpretation. The Hermit Tarot combinations with Major Arcana are presented in the table.
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The MagicianIt’s the perfect time to develop your talents or learn something new
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The High PriestessTo find your path, you need to look within yourself.
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The HierophantA wedding ceremony is expected soon.
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The Hanged ManYou need to prepare for trials: your surroundings will hinder the achievement of your goal.
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The LoversThe querent should be prepared for a meeting with their soulmate. It will be a strong and healthy union.
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JusticeLegal issues may arise.
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The Wheel of FortuneThe person has completely freed themselves from prejudices and restrictions.
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The DevilThere will be a temptation to cross your principles. The querent must decide whether it is worth it.
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The MoonThe dangers are gone, and you can breathe freely. The querent is destined for long spiritual pursuits.
The Hermit Tarot combinations with Wands are interpreted as searches for answers to questions. The Eight, Nine, and Ace promise success in this endeavor, while the Seven indicates that the person is deceiving themselves. The Old Man and Cups are interpreted as signs of loneliness. This could be a breakup, unrequited love, or emotional problems. The Nine and Ten have a positive character and symbolize inner harmony.
The Hermit Tarot combinations with Swords tend to have a negative connotation. They represent internal or external loneliness and the inability to see the truth. Pentacles, on the other hand, give the Pilgrim a positive shade. The appearance of the Five, Tens, or Queen in the spread should raise caution. They foretell bankruptcy, spiritual aging, and caring for sick parents, respectively.
The Hermit Tarot: meaning in relationships
The Hermit Tarot card in relationships is not the most favorable spread. The old man is immersed in himself. Even for the sake of a loved one, he is not willing to give up his mission. The solitary figure on the card indicates that now is not the best time to build relationships. Single people are warned by the Ninth Arcana not to succumb to blind passion. When drawn in a spread for someone you like, the Pilgrim is more likely a negative sign. The potential partner is too egocentric. He will not give the querent the love and tenderness they need.
For those in relationships, the arcana predicts a quick breakup. There is no harmony in such a union. The partner is unable to solve problems: it is easier for him to withdraw and leave.
- . If the partner finds the support from the querent that he so desires, he will be ready for a new stage in the relationship.
- . If the key to the partner’s thoughts is found, he will be able to adapt to any conditions.
- . If the Sage finds someone willing to share his path, he will become a wonderful partner.
In the works of Teresa Francis-Chong and Terry Silver, “Tarot for Beginners,” the appearance of The Hermit in a spread symbolizes attraction to a person of a more mature age.
Reversed The Hermit Tarot
In the reversed position, the Old Man does not always, but quite often, carry a negative connotation. The interpretation depends on the spread. The general meaning is escape from reality, lack of support, and a desire to become an outcast. The main meanings of the reversed Hermit Tarot are presented in the table.
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Love and relationshipsThe connection between partners is unstable. They suppress each other. Perhaps one partner only allows themselves to be loved, while not experiencing tender feelings themselves.
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CareerIt’s the perfect time to take active steps. A difficult work phase will soon end. A career advancement is possible.
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FinancesThe Hermit advises not to spend money unnecessarily. Impulsive purchases are possible. It is better to avoid loans.
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HealthThe card promises good health and complete recovery.
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Today’s cardThe day will not go according to plan. The querent may feel lonely. It is best to rest to avoid disappointments.
In Daniel Kris’s “The Magical Book of Tarot. Fate Predictions,” the reversed Hermit Tarot is interpreted as unnatural loneliness and egocentrism. This may be a refusal of help from others due to stubbornness or excessive suspicion. The card advises reconsidering priorities and asking yourself: “Am I enough for myself?”
Tarot The Hermit: characteristics of a man
The Hermit card depicts a lonely figure holding a lantern, symbolizing knowledge and truth. The man with the energy of the Ninth Arcana loves and values solitude. He does not need society. Even in the company of people, he is engaged in self-reflection and contemplation. Such a person has a rich inner world. He is never bored when alone. However, he has problems with the external world. All his transformations occur separately from others and are hardly noticeable to those around him.
The Hermit man can be a good partner. For his second half, he acts as a mentor and guide. If he finds a woman he can trust and who shares his principles and ideals, he will become a wonderful husband. But in any case, he will need to spend time alone from time to time. He prefers to remain silent with his partner, believing that this is the key to true harmony in relationships.
A man with the energy of the Old Man is quite reserved. He does not show strong emotions and prefers to act behind the scenes. He has moral principles, but some of them may be unclear to others. He has his own logic that guides him through life.
If, in a spread for a man with whom you just met, the Pilgrim appears, it is an unfavourable sign: these relationships are unlikely to have a future. The gentleman is focused on himself and does not need a life partner. But if he realizes he has found someone who fully understands him, he is ready to take a step forward and share his solitude.
The Hermit: what advice does the Tarot card give?
The Arcana Seeker can offer many wise pieces of advice. The general message is: “The time has come to look within yourself. This is a time for spiritual development.” In the main position, The Hermit’s interpretation is to trust yourself and your instincts. You need to give yourself time for reflection and avoid hasty actions. Important decisions are best made alone, so nothing distracts you and prevents you from focusing on what matters most. In the reversed position, The Hermit’s Tarot advice is: “Do not shut yourself off. You should share your fears with loved ones—they will help.”
- . Love. For the acquaintance to develop into something serious, you must avoid being selfish. If the partner is too egocentric, it is better to end such relationships and focus on self-discovery.
- . Finances. There is no need to chase after large sums. Money for basic needs will definitely be available.
- . Career. Now is the perfect time to try yourself as a mentor. It will be appreciated accordingly.
The Tarot card of the day, The Hermit, offers this advice: it is best to let go of the situation and dedicate time to tranquility. Avoid taking on complex projects. You should rely only on yourself.
Tarot The Hermit: characteristics of a person
The personality under the arcana The Hermit possesses qualities such as calmness, prudence, and observance. The Old Man is not a person of action; he prefers contemplation, self-reflection, and analysis. He needs to be away from people and worldly hustle. This helps him organize his thoughts and come up with brilliant ideas.
The Hermit Tarot person dedicates a lot of time to education. At the same time, he does not like to disperse his attention. It is easier for him to focus on one thing and perfect it. The owner of the energy of the Ninth Arcana understands life’s lessons and draws wisdom from them. Material values do not play a significant role for him. The gray robe of the Old Man on the card symbolizes internal leadership over external.
- . Excessive introversion
- . Pettiness and arrogance
- . Fear of being alone
- . Unfulfilled ambitions due to an inability to find students
- . Physical weakness
The bearer of the Hermit arcana needs to learn to find a balance between the spiritual and the material. They should not refuse love and friendship. Their wisdom can help many find themselves. Do not deprive others of your light.
The Hermit Tarot: description of a person’s thoughts
The Ninth Arcana describes a person endowed with sharp wit, intuition, and the gift of clairvoyance. He prefers to be away from others. Active actions are not foreign to him, but he is more inclined to contemplation. During his thinking process, the Pilgrim can anticipate the consequences of important events. It can be said that for The Hermit, thoughts occupy a large part of his time. Even in the company of others, he engages in self-analysis and tries to look deep into things.
The Ninth Arcana depicts a person with profound thoughts, which he does not like to share with others. The Old Man is dressed in a cloak with a hood, probably to prevent others from knowing what he is truly thinking. The Hermit is a secretive person. This is one of his shortcomings. He is not devoid of arrogance and considers himself smarter than those around him.
The owner of the energy of the Pilgrim arcana can view situations from different angles. He sees both the whole and its individual parts. Without anyone’s help, he is capable of finding correct solutions. He knows how to clear his mind of blind passions and control his emotions.
Tarot The Hermit: spread for the future
With the help of Tarot cards, you can get an answer to the question: “What awaits me in the future?” The appearance of The Hermit in a spread indicates upcoming changes in life. One chapter will end, and another will begin. There may be an exit from toxic relationships. To emerge victorious from this situation, you should rely on your own wisdom and the experience accumulated over the years. Intuition will also assist in this. The Hermit Tarot future is a sign that the current situation no longer satisfies you. To develop an action plan, spend as much time as possible in solitude.
In the main position, the Pilgrim can be interpreted as falsehood of the chosen path. The reversed meaning also promises changes. Most likely, the querent has been in a state of contemplation for too long, and now is the time to show what he has learned during this period. Introverts will not be frightened by the urge to retreat into solitude, but extroverts should prepare for this challenging stage: it is very important for their future life.
The reversed Old Man can be interpreted as a rapid career growth, unforeseen expenses, or a breakup of relationships.
The Hermit Tarot: meaning in work
In a career spread, The Old Man is always either a positive or neutral sign. If an elderly man in a gray cloak appears during divination, you can rest assured that there will be no problems with your career. In the main position, The Hermit Tarot predicts work in solitude. This could be either a desire to work on your own project or a misunderstanding or inability to receive support. The first option is especially relevant if the querent feels that their current job oppresses them. Perhaps now is the best time to start a business aligned with your personal goals.
The card favors people in creative and solitary professions. Artists, jewelers, foresters, freelancers—these people are promised success in all endeavors by The Hermit Tarot. If the arcana appears in a reversed position, it means it’s time to end the period of contemplation and calm. It’s time to act. Soon, the querent will experience career growth. Professional rewards are ahead. A reversed Pilgrim may indicate the need to find a mentor—an experienced and wise person who will be genuinely interested in the success of the inquirer.
The Hermit card in any position indicates that you should not bury your head in the sand. This is bad for both your career and finances. The Ninth Arcana rarely predicts large sums of money. The Hermit is ascetic and used to being content with little. However, it’s important not to let the situation go on its own. If something troubles you, you need to pull yourself together and change the situation for the better.
Tarot The Hermit: personality characteristics
- . A desire for knowledge. A person with the energy of the Ninth Arcana not only studies theory but also knows how to apply it in practice. He constantly improves himself, striving to focus on one area.
- . Prudence. The arcana describes a person capable of detaching from their emotions and viewing a situation from different perspectives.
- . Asceticism. The Hermit Tarot personality believes that the spiritual is more important than the material. He does not chase fashion. Public opinion does not matter to him; however, he is not immune to the desire to earn recognition.
- . A creative streak. Such a person is a good speaker and can become an excellent orator. He also masters written communication. He can articulate his thoughts clearly and convey them effectively to others.
A negative trait of the personality is introversion. The person is so deeply immersed in themselves that they lose contact with the outside world. This can lead to apathy. The Hermit Tarot personality may also be arrogant, considering themselves superior to others. They do not accept alternative viewpoints and believe that their opinion is the only correct one.
If such a person can find a balance between the material and the spiritual, learn to express emotions, and not reject earthly blessings, they will be able to fulfill their main mission: to find their path and help others find their place in life.
Tarot The Hermit: description of a woman
The woman with the energy of the Old Man is a thoughtful, attentive, and wise personality. She looks at the world with purpose, drawing experience from all life lessons. The Hermit woman in Tarot prefers solitude. She finds strength in being alone. From loneliness, she draws energy. During her time alone, she generates ideas.
A woman with the energy of the Ninth Arcana is not easily called fashionable. She prefers a restrained style. For her, spiritual beauty is more important than external appearance. Public opinion does not matter to her; however, she strives to earn respect and recognition. She tends to be proud, which can make it difficult for her to find a partner—someone she considers her equal.
The arcana numbered 9 describes a self-sufficient woman. Currently, she is focused on herself. Her primary concern now is spiritual development. She is not very interested in relationships; she is more concerned with ways of self-realization. If a querent is divining about a potential partner and The Hermit appears in the spread, he should be prepared for a long struggle. Most likely, he will have to pursue her, because she is not currently dreaming of love. She may not even be interested in the inquirer.
Tarot The Hermit: spread for health
For those asking “What is happening with my body right now?”, the appearance of The Hermit in a spread in the upright position is not the most favorable sign. The negative connotation is reflected in the card’s imagery, which depicts an old man symbolizing decline, weakness, and loss of physical strength. At the same time, the Ninth Arcana can be interpreted as a lack of rest or exhaustion of the body after prolonged work.
- . Take your health more seriously
- . Start meditating and practicing yoga
- . Broaden your social circle
- . Include it in your workout routine
- . Spend more time outdoors
- . Diversify your diet with healthy foods
- . Try to avoid stress at work
In the reversed position, The Hermit Tarot health indicates a positive sign. If the querent is suffering from an illness, the Ninth Arcana predicts a quick recovery. The reversed arcana symbolizes emotional healing and good well-being.
Tarot The Hermit: description of appearance
The Hermit can be represented by two main types. The first is an elderly person. He is mature, with wisdom accumulated over the years. He has a tired appearance, with wrinkles and gray hair. His build is average, but more often slender. He is short in stature. His eyes are gray and piercing, with an insightful gaze, as if he is looking into the very soul.
The second type is a person without age. This is usually a man, but can also be a woman. In this case, the appearance of The Hermit Tarot is quite different. He is tall, fit, and strong. His hair is dark, sometimes with hints of gray. His eyes are either gray or blue. Such a person chooses to be reserved by their own will. Wisdom came to him not with age, but through life lessons.
The Hermit is indifferent to fashion. He prefers to develop spiritually rather than physically. As a result, a person with the energy of the Ninth Arcana often appears weak and tired. He does not like flamboyant clothing. Even in his attire, the Pilgrim pays homage to asceticism.
Despite often unkempt appearance, The Hermit is popular among the opposite sex. Even in old age, he easily wins the admiration of young women. They are attracted by his experience and wisdom.
Tarot The Hermit: can it be used as a screensaver?
“Что будет, если я поставлю на заставку изображение аркана Отшельник?” – один из самых распространенных вопросов, которые слышат тарологи. На самом деле, каждый человек может выбирать обои с любыми картами Таро: в этом нет ничего плохого. Главное – не фокусироваться на отрицательной энергии, чтобы не привлечь в свою жизнь что-нибудь плохое.
- . The surroundings do not allow for solitude, but you very much want to be alone.
- . The person completely does not understand themselves.
- . Interest in life has disappeared, and the person constantly feels apathy.
- . The person completely does not believe in themselves and their abilities.
Having The Hermit Tarot as a screensaver can promote self-confidence. The person will be able to realize their uniqueness. They will start to think about who they really are and what they expect from life. The Pilgrim will help them focus on their problems and begin self-analysis. Thanks to the Sage on the phone screen, thoughts about the importance of paying attention to details will constantly be in their mind. Only in this way can they understand the meaning of life.