The Hermit in Tarot: Meanings for Real-Life

The Core Meaning* of The Hermit in Tarot

PURPOSEFUL ISOLATION

"Isolation" often comes up when speaking about The Hermit, but in my experience, it is not isolation for the sake of isolation. The Hermit retreats for a purpose. In the traditional depiction we see him carrying a lamp almost at the height of his own face, possibly blinding his own site. It doesn't matter much to him, though. He has gone within and learnt, and now, he's ready to show the way to others.

In real-life, The Hermit calls us to listen to our own voice and shut down the external voice. It can also show, in plainer situations, a disinterest in what is going around and a desire to retreat and take some distance. In its least optimistic interpretation, it can refer to misanthropy.

*Core meanings are not just another keyword resource. Check this!

Shakespeare Tarot Deck by Lisa Merletti (AMBROSIA)

It's All About the Context! The Meaning of The Hermit in Diverse Situations.

What attitudes and behaviours does The Hermit support?

Retreating so that one can find their own voice. Making your own decisions. Taking a step back to analyze a situation. Seeking the truth. Acquiring wisdom. Showing one's principles through walking the walk.

What attitudes or behaviours does The Hermit warn against?

Misanthropy. "Everybody's lost but me!" Believing oneself to be in posession of a truth that hasn't been revealed to anyone else. Detachment.

What's The Hermit as a personal strength?

Having a quiet, clear mind. Knowing how to be alone. Self-starting.

What's The Hermit as a personal weakness?

Inability to interact with others. Excessive individualism. "Illuminated" behaviour.

What's The Hermit as a personality?

A person with low social needs, probably an introvert or at least someone who needs time to recover from interaction. Usually, someone with the ability to reflect and self-actualize who will be happy to share their experience to a willing audience. They live by their principles. Ill-aspected, this kind of personality is likely to despise society. They can be detached from emotional connections and not be a reliable presence in the life of others

How does The Hermit describe a relationship?

A stable relationship that is described by The Hermit is likely to speak about an arrangement between individuals that are somewhat self-absorbed or focused on individual goals over the relationship. It is likely a relationship in which there is a disconnect. In a situationship, it describes one-sided interest, where the other part is not looking to connect emotionally or to commit.

How does The Hermit describe a break-up?

This is likely the kind of break-up that is preceded by "taking a break", or a break-up that is somewhat expected after a period of distance. Given the distant nature of The Hermit, this can be a break-up that is understood but never properly discussed or in which there is no closure.

How does The Hermit describe a problem?

As a problem, The Hermit suggests issues that are not shared or made public. The kind of struggles that aren't shared with others but carried on one's own.

How does The Hermit describe an opportunity?

An opportunity that is found after careful reflection of the situation. Opportunities that come from within, when one gives themselves permission to act on an idea or take a chance.

What's The Hermit as a career option?

The Hermit is often the freelance card. Solo entrepreneurship is a good fit. Philosopher. Archivist. Forest guard. Lighthouse keeper. Guide. Paleonologyst. Speolologist. Electrician.

What's The Hermit as an academic option?

Researcher. Prehistory and paleontology.

What's The Hermit as a working environment?

An isolated environment. Working from home or working in a private office. Being difficult to reach at work.

What's The Hermit as a financial situation?

While it doesn't showcase a prosperous financial situation, it is not necessarily a bad sign. It is surely a sign of unconventional finances. It's not a keeping up with the Joneses situation, but the person is likely independent. The detachment of The Hermit might suggest under the table finances.

What's The Hermit as a health issue?

Agoraphobia and social anxiety could be defined by this card. The hunched look of The Hermit might suggest cervical or shoulder issues, maybe a contracture in that area.

How does The Hermit describe a spiritual practice?

The nature of The Hermit might describe a spiritual practice that is pretty independent and coming from within, heavily based on personal gnosis, but it could also very well describe a crisis of faith or a situation in which one is in search of their own faith.

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