IX · The Hermit
Key points of this lesson
Roman numeral IX
The number 9 stands for the completion of a stage, integration and the turn inward. Before the Wheel begins to spin, the Hermit needs solitude to distil what he has been through.
The same symbol also appears in
- XVIII The Moon · 1+8=9 — likewise a journey into the subconscious and the inner shadow.
Lantern of truth
The raised lantern lights the ground at his feet, standing for inner awakening and the guidance of truth. It does not try to light the whole world — only the step being taken.
Six-pointed star
The flame is a golden hexagram (the Star of David), standing for the balance and union of the divine and the human — cosmic truth in miniature.
The same symbol also appears in
- XVII The Star · Likewise the guidance of hope and sacred wisdom.
Golden staff
The long staff in his left hand is the pillar of consciousness, standing for experience gathered walking the material world and the strength to hold oneself up.
The same symbol also appears in
- I The Magician · wand · The Magician's wand reaches up to draw down; the Hermit's staff reaches down to hold up.
Grey robe
Grey is black mixed with white — neutrality, humility, concealment. It shows the Hermit wrapping away worldly desire to concentrate on inner work.
Grey = humility, neutrality and reserve
Grey-blue background
The cool key builds a still, deep atmosphere, standing for the depth of the subconscious and the quiet insight that comes only in solitude.
Blue = stillness, reflection and the subconscious
Snowy summit
The Hermit stands on a frozen peak, standing for the highest spiritual attainment and purity of thought — and for how lonely the pursuit of truth is.
The same symbol also appears in
- 0 The Fool · background · The Fool sets off from the peak; the Hermit stops on it and looks back.
White beard
The white beard is the mark of wisdom, long life and experience: the Hermit has already been through the weathering of many years.
The same symbol also appears in
- V The Hierophant · The same white hair and beard, but the Hierophant leans toward teaching society while the Hermit leans toward personal realisation.
Bowed posture
His head is slightly lowered and his gaze turned down — deep introspection and humility. He no longer seeks approval outside; he looks inward for the answer.
Element of earth
The Hermit answers to Virgo, an earth sign. It gives him a practical, careful, detail-minded nature and the patience to dig deep in solitude.