Upright
Prudence, circumspection; also and especially treason, dissimulation, roguery, corruption.
Reversed
Concealment, disguise, policy, fear, unreasoned caution.
Reflection
Light
Becoming or seeking out a guru
Going on a retreat
Recharging spiritual or creative batteries
Lighting the way for those with less experience
Stepping back to gain perspective
Shadow
Being a loner
Fearing contact with others
Becoming a know-it-all
Inflating claims of expertise
Hiding your skills and talents out of fear of unworthiness
Symbolism
The variation from the conventional models in this card is only that the lamp is not enveloped partially in the mantle of its bearer, who blends the idea of the Ancient of Days with the Light of the World It is a star which shines in the lantern. I have said that this is a card of attainment, and to extend this conception the figure is seen holding up his beacon on an eminence. Therefore the Hermit is not, as Court de Gebelin explained, a wise man in search of truth and justice; nor is he, as a later explanation proposes, an especial example of experience. His beacon intimates that "where I am, you also may be."
The Fool
The Magician
The High Priestess
The Empress
The Emperor
The Hierophant