PLANETS 
The Hermit
The Hermit, or religious recluse, is a familiar figure in many religions. He symbolises the need to withdraw from the world for a while to contemplate the meaning of life, and seek enlightenment. By deliberately isolating himself, he is able to concentrate on a union with spiritual powers.
A hermit retires to the wilderness, to the top of a lonely mountain, or finds a distant cave for his solitary home. Here, he learns inner wisdom and listens to the voice of his higher self. Most Hermits in the Tarot carry a lamp, symbolising spiritual light and knowledge. Hecate, the dark goddess of crossroads, witchcraft, and midwifery is the ancient female counterpart of the Hermit. Here is the third face of the Triple Goddess in her guise as a wise old woman, dark destructive mother, and crone. Hecate governed both the waters of the sea and the waters of the womb when they broke during labour. She dwelt in the underworld, but often held a torch, the light from which illuminated the secrets of the unconscious, profound mysteries, not easily revealed. This card is paired with Virgo, the Virgin, which governs the sixth house of the natural zodiac. Virgo is traditionally the sign of work and service to others. These ideas are found in the Hermit, too, but here they also have a spiritual meaning. Selfless service is one way to rid ourselves of arrogance and deceit. As such, Buddhism and Christianity - amongst others - use it as a means of purifying the soul. Nine is the number of the Hermit, a number of completion, creativity and the universe. The Fool has learnt many things on his journey; the next stage of initiation has been reached, and he must sit quietly for a time. Interpretation  The Hermit Perhaps there is a serious decision to make; you may feel you have achieved everything you have set out to do and wonder what is next. You will soon realise there is always something new to learn, and may want to study philosophy, spiritual doctrines, or learn how to meditate. You may want to spend some time in a retreat, take long solitary walks, or travel alone. Peace and quiet are important now, and you will not lose out if you drop out of the social whirl for a time. Sometimes the Hermit can enter your life as a teacher. This person is unlikely to be a conventional teacher, but will be someone wise and kind who can guide you in the right direction. Listen to the advice that is given for it will be worth its weight in gold. When the Hermit appears, it can be warning against thoughtless action. This card's message is one of prudence, caution and discretion in worldly affairs. Take as much time as you need to reach your conclusions, and consider every angle. Silence is golden, says the Hermit, for it illuminates the path ahead. Reversed Many people hate being alone, and may experience this card as enforced loneliness. They need noise, distractions and ceaseless activity, for they are frightened to look too deeply inside themselves. This position suggests immaturity and superficiality, a life full of empty matter. Try not to reject advice given to you if you receive this card. It will be sound, and you would be very foolish to ignore it. This position can sometimes indicate pig-headed obstinacy, and refusal to listen. The Hermit reversed can also be telling you that you are wasting your time in some way; your energy could be used more productively. Examine your life and preoccupations. 0 - The Fool 1 - The Magician 2 - The High Priestess 3 - The Empress 4 - The Emperor 5 - The Hierophant or Pope 6 - The Lovers 7 - The Chariot 8 - Justice 9 - The Hermit 10 - The Wheel of Fortune 11 - Strength 12 - The Hanged Man 13 - Death 14 - Temperance 15 - The Devil 16 - The Tower 17 - The Star 18 - The Moon 19 - The Sun 20 - Judgment 21 - The World |
