The Hermit

Major Arcana IX, The Hermit stands alone on a mountain peak, cloaked in grey, holding a lantern containing a six-pointed star and leaning on a staff. Waite's Pictorial Key identifies him with the figure of prudence and the attainment of wisdom through solitary contemplation — the seeker who has turned inward. Attributed to Virgo in the Golden Dawn system, he represents the analytical faculty turned upon the self. In the Fool's journey he marks the midpoint of the first decade, where outward conquest yields to introspection and the light of personal understanding replaces the borrowed authority of institutions.