The Hermit divinatory meanings

The Hermit is about seclusion, withdrawal from society, as in a Monk or living in a hermitage. In fact the Hermit chooses to live a solitary life, but he is still engaged with society. People come to him for advice on all kinds of personal problems, and he is able to pronounce based not upon the dogma of the religious establishment he is attached to, but on the practicalities of life. His advice is purely for that person, and not a generality. After all, how many people go to a happy couple for advice on relationships? He is inner directed, and unless asked, he keeps his counsel to himself. The Hermit works from within, spiritually and magically. The problematical side is seclusion, feeling isolated or unable to interact with other people. There may be an obsession with secrets, or  secrets within the cards around it. The patriarchal prejudices against women and femininity come to mind, for it is associated with Virgo, the sign of the Virgin, but September is the month of harvests and fruitfulness.

Book of Thoth: The Hermit

Wander alone; bearing the Light and thy Staff.
And be the Light so bright that no man seeth thee.

Be not moved by aught without or within: keep Silence in all ways.

Illumination from within, secret impulse from within; practical plans derived accordingly. Retirement from participation in current events.

The Hermit points to all things hidden, such as knowledge and inspiration, hidden enemies. The illumination is from within, and retirement from participation in current events.