Major Arcana cards：IX The Hermit

Card Interpretation

The Hermit, cloaked in a long robe, holds a lantern in one hand and a walking stick in the other, groping his way forward alone in the dark. This card symbolizes seclusion: the Hermit seeks to let go of external temptations, attain inner peace, and then gain truth through meditation in a quiet environment. In silence, one can only hear the voice of their own heart—thus, it becomes easier to understand one’s true thoughts and find a final goal that truly belongs to oneself.

When interpreting this card, one should pay attention to the Hermit’s defining traits: examine the spread of the cards carefully, and double-check before giving an interpretation to ensure that no details have been inadvertently overlooked.

An elderly man stands atop a snow-covered mountain, wrapped in a gray cloak, holding an oil lamp as if lost in deep thought. The seemingly faint light of the lamp looks somewhat helpless in the dim, deserted snowy night, yet to the old man, it represents truth and hope. The walking stick in his hand is the very same wooden staff the Fool toyed with, the sacred tool the Magician used to connect heaven and earth, and the spear the Charioteer wielded in pursuit of victory. Now, however, after experiencing ignorance, passion, and prosperity, it has become so ordinary—truly embodying the ancient Chinese saying, "Return to simplicity and purity". The old man embraces the solitude of his seclusion, reflecting on his past, and following the guidance of the lamp of truth. This imagery implies the hardships and simplicity of the path to seeking truth, and foretells that only by understanding the world with an open mind and exploring one’s true self through constant self-reflection can one achieve genuine enlightenment.

Upright Position

When drawn upright, the card signifies: Hidden truths, independent action, heeding others’ advice, embracing solitude, self-transformation, valuable warnings, an elder, avoiding danger, a grandfather, and rural living. You step back from your career during its prime, and others fail to realize that this retreat is merely a respite, preparing you for the arrival of your next golden era. Emotionally, you will engage in profound reflection on your role and position in the relationship, and explore the true nature of your bond with each other.

Reversed Position

When drawn reversed, the card signifies: Ignoring warnings, resenting solitude, low self-esteem, anxiety, childish thinking, failure due to over-caution, deviation from the path, and inadvisability of travel. You have poured so much into your career that you are unwilling to face other matters—and yet, this dedication has led to a groundbreaking breakthrough in your work. Emotionally, you use busyness at work as an excuse to avoid the development of the relationship, acting coldly toward your partner. Out of fear of where the relationship might lead, you hold back at critical moments, breaking your partner’s heart.

Virgo

Virgo corresponds to the Hermit card in Tarot.

Virgos are highly organized and strive for perfection in everything they do. They are committed to the lifelong journey of pursuing wisdom and spiritual growth.