The hermit Tarot Card Meanings and Combinations
![]() IX The Hermit Correspondences:
Astrology: Virgo Element: Earth Keywords & phrases: Deep thought and contemplation. Wisdom. The Hermit Tarot Card Meanings The Hermit walks a solitary path, yet finds wisdom and solace within the silence of private thought. In the Visconti Tarot from the 15th century, this card resembled Father Time, with the wise old man carrying an hourglass to signify maturity and wisdom gained through time. Andy Boroveshengra suggests this card may have been depicted as Chronos (Father Time) during the Renaissance period, whilst Rachel Pollack notes the significance of this interpretation when you consider the placement coming before the Wheel of Fortune turns. Over time (no pun intended) the Old Man became the sage or hermit, with the hourglass replaced by the lantern we recognise today. When The Hermit appears in your Tarot reading it can suggest withdrawal for some soul-searching; a time of quiet thought and reflection in order to find the answer that lies within. The Hermit holds his lantern aloft to illuminate the path ahead; he shows us that we can find our way to inner truth if we follow his example with maturity and wisdom. It can suggest being prudent, taking time, and keeping your own counsel. Studying and acquiring knowledge are also well aspected with this card and for some it represents a teacher and guide. As a solitary figure, in relationship readings it may indicate alone time or pulling back to think things through; The Hermit withdraws from the throng and travels alone. If reversed or badly aspected, imprudence, lack of maturity, acting hastily, (although some view it as over caution), problems with elders. The Hermit Tarot Card Combinations Five of Wands > The Hermit: Pulling back from the fray and removing yourself from the equation, leaving others to their petty squabbles. The Hermit > Six of Swords: Some solitary time to think things through brings an improvement to matters. May indicate a solo trip. Six of Cups > The Hermit: Nostalgia, thoughts on the past and times gone by, reflecting on memories. The Hermit > The High Priestess: The search for deeper meaning and mysteries of life, tapping into the Higher Self. The Hermit > The Empress or Emperor: in a literal sense can be grandparents, (particularly if Ten of Pentacles present) or taking advice from an older relative, similarly… The Hermit > Any King or Queen: Alongside, may indicate an older person and the suit of the King or Queen would provide the character description. The Hermit > The World: Success achieved slowly, over time. ![]() You'll find more information to help you in Easy Tarot: Learn to Read the Cards Once and For All! book and card set. Available from bookshops and online:
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