The Symbolism of the Hermit Tarot Card
This card is represented by an old man with a grey beard shrouded in grey robes. His face is hidden by his cowl. In one hand he carries a lantern, which represents insight and understanding. In the other hand, he holds a staff. The background is a vast wasteland.
The Hermit bears the number “9,” and is the patient guide of the Fool after his encounter with Strength.
The General Interpretation of the Hermit Card
When appearing in a spread, this card implies a time of loneliness or withdrawal from life. It brings a reminder that wisdom and patience can sometimes only be acquired by this withdrawal. It also teaches that if you are willing to wait, there can be the opportunity to build a truly solid foundation.
The Fool at last arrives at maturity, having developed both a mind and a heart. He has a firm sense of identity, and a deep respect for his own limitations. The Fool has certainly come far since he stepped of the precipice of the unknown.
The Inner Meaning of the Hermit in Tarot
The Hermit is the image of time and the limitations of mortal life. This card explains a simple and obvious fact: nothing is allowed to live past its span, and nothing remains the same. This lesson usually only comes with age and much experience, and it is often resisted by the unenlightened.
The Fool begins to learn the value of loneliness. He discovers that he is ultimately alone, and that all mortals must eventually face the same dilemma. He learns to accept this, and accept his own mortality. He finally realizes that youth passes into maturity, and maturity becomes old age. There is no escaping this.
The lessons the Hermit has to teach cannot be learned through struggle and conquest, not like the Chariot and Strength. It is only through acceptance that the Hermit can best teach all that he has to offer. The Fool is taught to develop the reflective and solitary part of himself. He recognizes that there are things he cannot change, but he can learn to deal with them from a place of higher understanding.
The Hermit also forces on the Fool the notion that intellect, heart, courage, and strength all mean nothing if he cannot find the patience and prudence that the Hermit has to offer. The Hermit shows the Fool how to endure and wait in silence.
The Hermit is who the Fool must encounter after he meets Strength, on the path to his meeting with the Wheel of Fortune.
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