The Hermit Revisited
Wisdom
from Within
““Sometimes
we need
some distance
to reflect
on icy mountains
and dazzling auroras,
to cradle ourselves
in the egg of the cosmos
until we can be reborn
in the light of wisdom.”
”
Inspired by the strength they found within, the Fool decides to retreat from the outside world in order to seek a higher understanding. Key IX, The Hermit is the ultimate embodiment of the lessons learned from the nines of the minor arcana. Once you reach a certain point of attainment, in order to reach total fulfillment you must reflect on all you have learned and find the clarity necessary to move forward. In the Hermetic Tarot this card is known as the “Magus of the Voice of Light.”
The Hermit floats above a harsh, snowy landscape—a manifestation of their spiritual growth. They assume the fetal position to fully withdraw into their own inner world. The cosmic egg around them serves as a barrier of protection. It is a symbol of creation and rebirth, as well as the duality between chaos and cosmos. It is full of potential. From within it they nurture and guard the light of wisdom, as represented by the six pointed star, until they are ready to be reborn. An aurora forms a serpentine shape around them, symbolic of the snake that that traditionally encircles and incubates the cosmic egg.
This card is ruled by Virgo.
In a reading the Hermit may appear as an invitation to take a step back from the material world to look inward. Seek solitude to connect with what your soul is searching for and ask the questions that no one can answer for you. Introspection is also important for self-awareness. Check in, realign, and refocus. It may also suggest that you should strive to be a guiding light for others who need a little help finding their way.
The reversed may reflect imbalance within your interior world. Are you spending too much time alone and overthinking? You may feel isolated and alone. Are you withdrawing for the right reasons or are you trying to run away? Conversely, are you not taking enough time away from the stress of day to day life to reconnect with yourself? Strive for balance.
