Tarot Tuesday

In this card, we can see the Hermit standing alone on a mountain top with a  lantern in hand. The Hermit has attained his spiritual goal and is ready to share his knowledge. Astrologically, this card is represented by Virgo (detail-oriented, strong analytical faculties, perfectionism.) It is numbered 9 in the Major Arcana and represents accomplishment, wisdom, the attainment of goals as well as the search for truth. 


In symbolism... the lantern represents the Lamp of Truth containing the star of wisdom and the staff  is the patriarch's staff which is the symbol of the narrow path of initiation. The snow at the Hermit's feet represents the heights of spiritual attainment and he wears the grey cloak of invisibility.

 In readings, the Hermit represents the need to slow down and absorb more of a peaceful and quite life.  He finds his knowledge and wisdom through exploration of the inner self rather then the physical world around him.  The Hermit separates himself from the more unimportant aspects of life in order to find true self-awareness. He does not just experience life but he uses that experience to understand why things are the way they are.  


The Hermit is learning about the self and the motivations behind his own personal actions and thinking.  He often represents a more meditative state of mind that  focuses on one's purpose. The Hermit is more self-conscious, so he has become more aware of any negative patterns or cycles he is repeating and strives to improve them for the benefit of everyone.


When the Hermit turns up for you, some helpful questions to ask yourself are... "When was the last time I stopped to take a break from the hectic daily schedules in my life...? "Am I  able to be quite and listen to my inner voice...? "Is the current path I am on still as significant as when I first started out?  Maybe this is a key time to stop and meditate on your goals and inner truths, take notice any negative patterns that might be hindering your progress.