Generally, a hierophant is a person, especially a priest, who explains and interprets the sacred principles and mysteries.
Table of Contents
Description
The Hierophant is the 5th Major Arcana card among all the other 22 Major Arcana cards. This card is known as ‘High Priest’ and ‘Pope’ in other decks. The Hierophant is assumed to be the male counterpart of ‘High Priestess’ card. On this card, a religious figure is sitting between the two pillars which seems to be a sacred temple. He is wearing a three-layered robe of red, blue, and white colour. The Red colour is a symbol of courage, action, and confidence. Blue colour represents faith, wisdom, knowledge, and intelligence, while the colour white represents purity, spirituality, and protection. On his head, he wears a three-tiered crown which represents the three worlds (conscious, subconscious, and superconscious) over which he rules. His right hand is raised above for benediction (a symbol of blessings) with the two fingers and thumb pointing towards the heaven and the other two fingers pointing towards the earth. On his left hand, he holds the ‘Papal Cross’ which symbolizes his religious status. In the foreground, two of the followers are kneeling to seek the blessings of the Hierophant, who has passed the sacred knowledge to them so that they can take their appointed roles. Near the foot of the Hierophant, there are two crossed keys which represent the mysterious world where only he can go.
Keywords
- Traditions, Morals, and Ethics
- Marriage
- Spiritual Guidance
- Teaching Institution
- Commitment
- Knowledge and Wisdom
- Consent and Approval
General Meaning
‘The Hierophant’ card signifies meeting a religious person to gain spiritual knowledge from him. This could be a life-changing experience for you. You may learn many traditional values from that person. He can be a religious advisor, priest, preacher, monk, or anyone. Alternatively, this card also represents your role as an advisor or a teacher. If you have mastered your field of career, this card is a good omen which assures your growth as a teacher and mentor. This is a very positive card which sometimes advises you to follow the path of spirituality. It also signifies a religious ceremony in the family.
Upright Position
If this card appears in the upright position in your spread, it signifies a positive sign. There are chances of meeting someone who will guide you well and will be your mentor for life. This can be a religious figure like a priest, preacher, monk, etc. This could be a life-changing experience for you as that person will bless you with the sacred knowledge which will take you to the path of spirituality. If you are a teacher, this card is a good omen which signifies growth in your profession. People around you will appreciate your teaching methods and will always look for your advice. There will a positive environment around you. This card also shows a religious ceremony at your place. It also signifies your prestigious image in society. Your work is appreciated by others and people always look for your advice on whatever the situation is.
This card also signifies a marriage function in your family.
Reversed Position
If ‘The Hierophant’ appears in the reversed position in your spread if advises you to follow your own advises rather than blindly following others. The answer you are seeking will come from within. So, for that, you need to focus on your subconscious mind which has all the answers to your questions. Sometimes, this card also advises following your spiritual belief system. Alternatively, this card also shows that you are following the path of anti-institutional activities.