The Immediate Symbolism of the Hermit is clear: A person who withdraws himself from the shared life of the community to seek wisdom and understanding in solitude. Although the appearance of the Hermit card in a reading obviously doesn't mean that you are literally going to go and live in a cave somewhere, the themes of withdrawal the voluntary isolation of the individual, and seeking greater wisdom are fundamental to its meaning.

At its most material this can mean actual physical solitude. Perhaps you need a bit of time out from a hectic family, social, or work life. Sometimes we spend so much time living for other people, doing what is expected of us or what the situation demands, that we lose touch with who we are. A bit of peace and quiet to find yourself can be a very beneficial experience.

Just as often however, the Hermit can describe an attitude. In many ways this is the same attitude generally associated with Virgo, the astrological sign which corresponds to this card: Thoughtfulness, caution, and prudence. The Hermit therefore shows us withdrawing from our automatic and impulsive actions, taking a step back and thinking before we speak or act. The Hermit may suggest that there are dangers ahead of us which can only be avoided if we maintain a prudent attitude.

On a more esoteric and spiritual level the Hermit, and the symbolism of Virgo the Virgin, can refer to our inner self. The personality is promiscuous, continually interacting with and being conditioned by the outside world and the people around us. But the personality is not our true self; it is our attempt to express our true self in the context that we find ourselves in. Our inner self always remains pure and untouched by the outside world - the eternal virgin. The Hermit therefore represents the journey inwards to that part of ourselves which is only ours, which we do not, and can not, share with others. The Hermit has a strong connection with meditation, prayer, philosophy and other contemplative practices.

The Hermit is depicted as an old man, and the appearance of this card may indicate the passage of time, the wisdom of old age, or an actual person of advanced years. It may suggest that things cannot be rushed, or that a period of convalescence or contemplation is required. Alternatively it may suggest that you need to gain more experience, or to rely on the wisdom of others who already have that experience.