The Hermit (Card IX) - Basic Meanings

 

General:

The Hermit, numbered IX (this is 9 in Roman numerals), is about sacred solitude. Sometimes you need to cut out the noise, so you can hold up the lamp of your Heart, so you can see what you need to see, and hear what you need to hear. Vibe with the wildness of existence; within and without. Rest, recharge, take a break. Doing so is vital for healthy living. 

Obstacle: 

When in the obstacle position, the Hermit can indicate that you are isolating. Solitude is healthy, but isolation is torture. You can be among family and still be emotionally isolated. It doesn't feel safe to come out of isolation, but you'll die before you're dead if you don't. And if you already died before you're dead, let connection breathe life back into you. 

Solution:

If the Hermit is in the solution position it's time for the silence to be heard. Look for the people who aren't saying anything. Talk to the quiet ones, hold space for them, and listen to understand. Listen for who is being left out of the narrative, who or what isn't being considered. Meditate before you do this so you can be zen no matter what is said, otherwise no one will talk to you. 

NOTE: Picture slot intentionally left blank. Using NO pictures is on purpose so that these meanings can be more easily applied to any Tarot deck using the Smith-Waite system, aka: Rider-Waite Smith (RWS).