Major Arcana, number 9
The Hermit meaning and how to read it
- upright
- reflection, search, solitude, wisdom
- reversed
- withdrawal, stubbornness, loneliness
The Hermit stands on a snowy peak holding up a lantern. The light is for his own feet and the road ahead: someone who steps away from others to look for answers within.
Updated September 23, 2026
The Hermit upright meaning
Upright, it is time to step back from other voices and check your own thinking. In time alone you notice what you had missed.
It is also a card of hard-won wisdom and specialist study. An answer reached through deep thought lasts longer than a quick one.
The Hermit reversed meaning
Reversed, solitude has turned into isolation. You are refusing help or digging in, keeping the light out. Talk to one person you trust and something will loosen.
The Hermit in love and feelings
Upright
A time to face yourself more than to chase love. It can also point to a quiet relationship that values a deep connection.
Reversed
You have closed off and are keeping them at a distance. Old heartbreak may be keeping you from new people.
In the place of their feelings
They need time alone right now. Even if it looks like distance, it is often about something other than their feelings for you.
The Hermit for career and money
Upright
Suited to focused solo work: research, specialist roles, crafts. Also a time to rethink your career and look for what you really want to do.
Reversed
Poor communication is causing misunderstandings and isolation. Come out of your shell and share what you know.
The Hermit as a future card
As a future card, the answer is found after going deeper within. As a life theme, it describes someone who keeps finding their own way.
The Hermit in a yes or no reading
uprightDependsreversedNo
Upright, depends: do not move yet; take time to think. Reversed, no: deciding while shut away will not work.
The Hermit as a birth card
The Hermit is your personality card if the digits reduce to 9, or first to 27 and then 9. Born on June 8, 1975: 6 + 8 + 1975 = 1989, 1 + 9 + 8 + 9 = 27, 2 + 7 = 9. People with the Moon (18) also have the Hermit as their soul card.