HERMIT
The wisdom of silence is deafening -- Silence. Space. Thought. Sequester. Meditation. Curiosity. Questioning. Removing yourself from the noise of everyday life. Inner knowledge cultivated by personal investigation. Acute listening to the universe inside of you. Sharing wisdom with others. Leading by example.
SHADOW: Hiding from the outer world. Social anxiety. Sticking one's head in the sand. The inability to express oneself to the outer world. Losing your grip on reality. Thinking you are a master with nothing left to learn. Spiritual snobbery.
The Shadow Witch moves onward and sees a light shining in the darkness through the trees. The Hermit holds a lantern at the mouth of a cave. The cave walls contain scribbling, signs, and symbols. The Hermit invites the Shadow Witch inside her cave.
The Hermit sequesters herself in order to hear the divine whispers of the universe. Recorded knowledge provides groundwork, but only each individual can experience a unique relationship with the unseen. This is why hermits, esoteric masters, and soul seekers sequester themselves into seclusion and vows of silence. It is the profound fecundity of silence and darkness where one becomes an active observer responding to the living universe. Away from noise, sound, and distraction, the innermost trembling of the soul may be heard. This is why hermits seek vastness and seclusion deep in the desert or high in the mountains, far and away from the psychic energy of others.
The Hermit moves outside of her cave once her relationship to mystery is cultivated. She lets her inner light of knowledge and guidance lead the way so that others may do the same for themselves.
The Hermit's cave, like a dark forest or the underworld, reflects hidden knowledge and a journey. Her cloak and hood express protection. The glowing lamp is a beacon for others to follow. Esoteric markings inside the cave reflect the active work of the Hermit. She is not passive in her exploration of her inner and outer landscapes but alive, observant, and completely aware.