The Hermit, seeking great wisdom alone, not lonely.

The Hermit (Card IX) is consistently depicted as alone, male, and deep in wisdom. In readings, The Hermit indicates the importance of not just independence but also solitude, the solo pursuit of knowledge within as well as without the self. Too often, this card is read (or received) as a negative you’re-on-your-own-go-it-alone-no-on-is-there-for-you situation.

As with previous cards in this series, The Hermit is a power we have within ourselves to harness when needed – an arrow in the quiver, if you will – but more than that, it is a power we should actively seek to nurture and grow. It is the power of independence, the strength of thought, and the comfort of solitude. The Hermit is the power to walk your own path with a sure foot and purposeful stride. Unlike The Fool (Card 0), The Hermit is not walking a new or random path; The Hermit knows the destination and is more than capable of following the path, entirely alone if necessary, collecting knowledge and strength with every step.

We must each walk our own path, often we must do it alone, and it is a GOOD THING. The Hermit is not selfish – ask for assistance, information or advice and you shall have it – but also not weighed down by the needs, concerns, objections of others. The Hermit knows exactly where the buck stops; his own choices, his own decisions, his own responsibilities.

THE HERMIT IS FREEDOM!!

If you are a bit smart and a bit brave, The Hermit will use the guiding light to illuminate your true pathway, walking with you every step of the way.

((All images courtesy of Google Images.))