5 of Pentacles & The Hermit
5 of Pentacles & The Hermit
Analysis:
Imagery
Each image depicts prominent sources of light, though in different ways. In the 5 of Pentacles, there is light coming through the stained glass window. In The Hermit, we see it in the lantern.
Both scenes take place at night - in the dark.
There is snow visible in each image, which is an interesting feature since snow is only depicted a handful of times throughout the deck.
There is some similarity in dress and body posture present across all figures. In the 5, we see two individuals cloaked, heads down, and covered. In The Hermit, we also see a cloaked figure, head bowed and also covered.
Walking aids are depicted in each scene. In the 5, one of the individuals uses crutches to walk, and in The Hermit, we see a staff or walking stick.
Stars are present in each scene. In the 5, they show up as pentacles in the stained glass window, and in The Hermit, we see a single 6-pointed star in the lantern.
Astrology
Both cards are governed by the element Earth. Pentacles are rules by Earth and The Hermit is associated with Virgo. As well, the 5 of Pentacles is the 3rd decan of Taurus (an Earth sign), which is ruled by Mercury, and Mercury also rules Virgo.
Qabalah
The Hebrew letter assigned to The Hermit is Yod, and Heh would be associated with The 5 of Pentacles, being that it is the fifth letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Together they form Yah, which is the divine name of the sphere of Chokmah on the Tree of Life, which is in itself an archetypal masculine force. This can be seen much like the yang of Taoism, or perhaps even the Hermit, who could be perceived as a mythological "wise old man" figure.
What do YOU see???
Possible Interpretation:
Looking at the cards in this way, The Hermit's size really stands out. They kind of look like an overarching energy or a spirit guide showing the travelers the way, even if they can't quite see it! And isn't that the way it often is in life? It can be so difficult to see the forest for the trees, but it does give me comfort to think there may be something looking out for us even when things get dark, even when we feel lost and even when we can't sense or see this presence.
It's also interesting to consider that the same elements are essentially present in each card - snow, light, the dark, stars, a walking aid, drapey clothing. But, it's in how they are arranged that sets the tone. I think this is also an excellent lesson on how a symbol won't always mean the same thing - context is key! Snow can indicate challenge, but it can also point to the overcoming of said challenge. The dark may be perceived as scary, or it could represent the wisdom of our shadow side.