The Hermit - 9

Seek solitude and listen to yourself

With eyes downcast, the Hermit is turned away from us, looking to the left as he reflects on the past. The setting behind him is grey and blank, showing he is alone and unencumbered with the dealings of the world. He carries a staff and lantern (an hourglass in earlier depictions), aiding him and helping illuminate his way. He chooses this time alone to seek his inner guidance find his path.

Rider-Waite-Smith

Meanings

The Hermit is a call towards self-examination, reflection, and seeking solitude to find wisdom.
This is a time of self-guidance. You have learned the lessons of your previous teachers and now must learn to take their guidance into consideration to determine the correct path for yourself.
Trust your instincts and listen to your heart, the answer lies within you
This card is a reminder to pull back and seek solitude in times of confusion, wisdom lies within you, you only need to seek it out.

Numerology - 9

Nines are a time to withdraw from the world for reflection, sifting through what has and has not worked. You have learned creativity and insight, and the lessons of the past are now becoming clear.

Nine is associated with service, compassion, and nearing the completion of projects. They value honesty and sincerity.

Tarot de Marseille

Symbolism

Lantern – bringing light and illumination to his mind and lighting his path, the lantern shows the Hermit’s desire to seek out inner-wisdom.

Star – the 6-sided star within the lantern is known in Jewish and Islamic traditions as the sign of Solomon and often indicates divine wisdom and control over the natural elements.

Staff – the Hermit relies on guidance, authority, strength, and stability to support him on his journey.

Hooded Robe – shows the Hermit lives withdrawn from the world and shielded from outside opinions and distractions.

Setting – the distant mountains and bare landscape show the Hermit is alone, removed from the world but preparing for coming challenges to face.

The Visconti-Sforza Deck

Associations

Earth – the suit of health, wealth, and grounding, represented by the pentacles in tarot. Earth relates to things happening in the tangible realm, your basic needs, finances, work, and physical health.

Mercury – knowledge, studying, and manifesting your desires with hard work and communication.

Virgo – practical, analytical, and wise, Virgos seek connection to the natural world through solace and ritual.