The Hermit
Meaning
The Hermit is card nine. The classic card shows an old man in a gray cloak standing alone on a snowy mountaintop. In one hand he holds a staff, and in the other a lantern with a six-pointed star inside. He looks down, lighting only the next few steps. He has climbed away from the crowd on purpose, and the light he carries is small but enough to see by.
In a reading, The Hermit points to a time of turning inward. It speaks to moments when you need distance to understand what you really think, away from other people’s opinions. It can suggest study, therapy, a retreat, or simply more time alone. The card isn’t about loneliness, though it can warn against isolating too much. It asks you to find your own answers, then bring what you learn back to others.
Upright
Introspection, solitude, guidance, wisdom, a search for meaning. An invitation to step back and listen to yourself.
Reversed
Isolation, loneliness, withdrawal, avoiding reflection. A nudge to reconnect with people, or to finally make the quiet time you’ve been putting off.
In love
A time for self-understanding. For singles it suggests getting clear on what you want before looking outward; in a relationship it supports giving each other space and having thoughtful, unhurried talks.
Career and money
Good for focused, independent work, research, and rethinking your direction. Before a big move, take time to reflect on what kind of work actually means something to you.
As advice
Make time to be alone with your thoughts. The answer is more likely to come from reflection than from more input.
Frequently asked
Is The Hermit a yes or no card?
Traditionally, maybe — The Hermit asks for more time and reflection before a decision. The answer isn’t ready yet, so it’s better to wait than to rush.
What does The Hermit mean upright?
Introspection, solitude, guidance, wisdom, a search for meaning. An invitation to step back and listen to yourself.
What does The Hermit mean reversed?
Isolation, loneliness, withdrawal, avoiding reflection. A nudge to reconnect with people, or to finally make the quiet time you’ve been putting off.
What does The Hermit mean in love?
A time for self-understanding. For singles it suggests getting clear on what you want before looking outward; in a relationship it supports giving each other space and having thoughtful, unhurried talks.
What does The Hermit mean for career and money?
Good for focused, independent work, research, and rethinking your direction. Before a big move, take time to reflect on what kind of work actually means something to you.
What does The Hermit mean as advice?
Make time to be alone with your thoughts. The answer is more likely to come from reflection than from more input.
What comes before and after The Hermit?
Strength comes before The Hermit, and Wheel of Fortune comes after it. After finding inner strength, The Hermit withdraws to reflect, and the Wheel brings the turn of events that follows.
Does The Hermit mean being alone forever?
No. The Hermit describes a chosen, temporary period of solitude for reflection. It’s a season of turning inward, not a sentence of loneliness.
Which astrological and elemental associations does The Hermit have?
In tarot tradition, The Hermit is linked to Virgo and the element of Earth. These are historical associations, not claims about you.
Is The Hermit your birth card? Calculate it →
Is The Hermit your year card? Find out →