Self-reflection, Contemplation, Meditation, Introspection, Solitude, Soul-searching
Ruling Planet: Mercury
Element: Earth
The Hermit
Number 9, The Hermit
Here we see a Pixie standing on a cliff-face, holding a lantern and walking stick. The Hermit uses these tools to create their own path and find their own way. They stand at the edge of this cliff-face with accomplishment, ready and willing to share their spiritual findings with everyone.
The Hermit seeks knowledge and a better understanding of ones-self. There is a difference between being lonely and being alone. The Hermit is not lonely, they know that they must seek this knowledge they desire by themselves. The pathway to finding ones self is a journey that is always taken alone.
The Hermit card tells us that you may be contemplating on being alone for a while. This doesn't have to look like total isolation if that is not what you desire. One can still walk their path alone and maintain a social life.
Don't be afraid of what is to come, for in the end, you will only gain a better understanding of yourself and the world around you.
Reverse:
Upright:
Loneliness, Sadness, Withdrawing from others, Rejection, Isolation
Card in Reverse:
In reverse, The Hermit can suggest that you may want to be alone for a while, but be warned that your seclusion may become harmful to both yourself and others.
While searching for ones-self is a journey to be most respected, if you are not careful, it can lead to a dark path. You may discover things that you might not yet understand and misinterpret them for something they are not.
Tread carefully and be sure to ask the right questions. Continue to ask questions until you feel satisfied with the answers. If the answers bring you discomfort, don't stop there. Continue asking questions until you find balance and/or peace.
Upright:
Love
Learning to love ones-self, Taking a break in love life to introspect
Reverse:
Loneliness, Feeling distant from loved one(s), Rejection
Career
Upright:
Searching for purpose in career, Contemplating next steps
Reverse:
Working alone, Feeling outcast at work
Upright: Learning how to love is one of the most important lessons we can learn in life. Love requires us to truly know ourselves - our wants, needs, insecurities and fears. We cannot build a strong foundation with someone when we are missing parts of ourselves that we have yet to discover. Learning these things about ourselves will help us have the deepest and most special connections with others. You will understand what it is you need in a relationship and what you can offer in return.
The Hermit in love can suggest that you take a break from seeking romance in your life right now, and really look inward. Search inside you for what brings you love - for love is something we grow within us, not something we find outside of us.
If you feel that you've already been on this journey and you are in a committed relationship, perhaps you both need to do some soul-searching together. What would make you both happier? What do you both want to achieve in life? Starting the conversation could be uncomfortable at first, but it will ultimately help you strengthen the foundation you have with your partner.
Reversed: You may be going through a lovely period right now, perhaps one that feels more forced on to you rather than one you are willing to take yourself. It may be tough right now, but if you can take a deep breath, slow down and take a look around, you may just find the light. Try to make the most of this situation by self-reflecting and meditating.
If you are currently in a relationship, you may be feeling as if your partner is a bit distant in some way. Or maybe your partner feels this way about you without you realizing it. Reflect on your relationship and what may be taking place in each of your lives. Take some time to enjoy your partners company and communicate on how you're both feeling right now. Should something come up, what can you both do to fix it?
Upright: You may be spending a lot of time thinking on what you want/need out of your career. Perhaps you're feeling unfulfilled in regards to your work and are starting to think about what else could be out there for you. Working for the sake of money is no longer working for you and your soul is calling to find more meaningful work. Think deeply on what skills you're good at. What are some things people often come to your for help with? What brings you fulfillment?
Reversed: The Hermit card can suggest that you may be feeling kind of isolated at work. Perhaps you are feeling lonely or like an outcast. Or maybe you're purposely seeking solitude at work because you feel like you don't fit in, or you don't trust/rely on any of your co-workers.
If work has been difficult for you in this regard, ask yourself if it's working for you. Should you look for a new job? Try networking? Is there anyone you can look up to as a mentor?