Liminal/New Liminal Tarot - Hermit

9 –Hermit

A very tall angel holds two lanterns, one by her side and another that gives off wide beams of light. A rope is attached to the large lantern and drops down below.

The small lantern represents the insights this Hermit has obtained through solitude and contemplation. These insights are based on self-awareness – the awareness of one’s thought processes and the underlying patterns behind them. What are our triggers, motives, and biased assumptions?  How do they affect our lives? Tasha Eurich writes, “Research suggests that when we see ourselves clearly, we are more confident and more creative. We make sounder decisions, build stronger relationships, and communicate more effectively.” Yet Eurich also cautions against unproductive rumination, suggesting that instead of why questions, we ask what questions. Framing our questions by asking ‘what’ helps us stay objective, future-focused and empowered to act on our new insights. The Hermit’s self-inventory inspires her to hold a lantern (and rope) aloft for other seekers. The path for each person will be different, yet the Hermit can give us some practical tips that might help. Having an anam cara (soul friend) to guide and support us on our spiritual journey can be beneficial.

“To know yourself, you must sacrifice the illusion that you already do.”

~Vironika Tugaleva