HIEROPHANT DESCRIPTION

The Hierophant is the masculine counterpart to the High Priestess. He is also known as the Pope or the Teacher in other Tarot decks and is ruled by Taurus.

The Hierophant is a religious figure sitting between two pillars of a sacred temple – though this temple differs from the one in which the High Priestess sits. He wears three robes – red, blue and white – and a three-tiered crown, both representing the three worlds over which he rules (the conscious, sub-conscious and super-conscious). In his left hand, he holds the Papal Cross, a triple sceptre that signifies his religious status. He raises his right hand in a religious blessing, with two fingers pointing towards Heaven and two towards Earth.

Before him kneel two followers. The Hierophant’s task is to pass down his spiritual wisdom and initiate the two into the church so they can take up their appointed roles. This imagery speaks to a shared group identity and a rite of passage to enter the next level. The crossed keys at the Hierophant’s feet represent the balance between the conscious and subconscious minds and the unlocking of mysteries, which only he can teach.

NOTE: The Tarot card meaning description is based on the Rider Waite cards.

Hierophant Keywords

UPRIGHT: Spiritual wisdom, religious beliefs, conformity, tradition, institutions

Upright Hierophant

The Hierophant card represents an established set of spiritual values and beliefs and is often correlated with religion and other formal doctrines. Before you can discover your own belief systems and make your own choices (as associated with the next card, the Lovers), the Hierophant encourages you to learn the fundamental principles from a trusted source.

Work with a teacher, mentor, or guide to teach you about spiritual values and beliefs in a structured way. He may be an authority or a kind and generous mentor who nurtures your spiritual awareness and helps you access the Divine by understanding the traditions and core principles. You may also undertake a period of formal study as you delve into a subject that has been widely explored and documented.

If you have already mastered a particular field of study, you may be taking on the role of teacher and mentor to others. In this position, you honour and acknowledge your responsibility to share your knowledge in a structured way, one that respects the age-old traditions.

The Hierophant‘s arrival suggests you are following convention and staying within the bounds of a ‘tried and tested’ model. You are not yet willing to go out on a limb or offer any new and innovative ideas. Instead, you adhere to the key principles and rules that you know will lead to a successful result.

The Hierophant may call you to honour family traditions or sacred rituals that sit neglected. You are being asked to commit to spiritual practice in its most wholesome form – no customisation, no adaptation, no bending the rules. If you have been lacking ritual and tradition, create a regular practice such as daily prayer or saying grace before a meal. Consider exploring your spiritual or religious heritage.

The Hierophant Tarot card often speaks to group membership or being part of an institution. You may enjoy a deep sense of comfort being surrounded by people who have well-established belief systems and explicit values. Finding them may be as significant as exploring a new church or religious group, or as simple as joining a gym or online Tarot community. This card is about identifying with others and a way of thinking that will prompt further learning.

Upright Love Meaning:

Safe, traditional partners, avoiding taboo, spiritual love

When it comes to relationship tarot readings, the Hierophant's upright love meaning can point to the effects of conventional religion on love and choosing partners. You could be drawn to partners that are safe, traditional, and respected by your community, and avoid partners that are considered "taboo". The Hierophant love meaning in tarot can also represent the more spiritual aspects of love, and a reminder that our partners should be treated morally, and lovingly. Sometimes, this card can also indicate marriage.

Relationships affected by the Hierophant card are usually traditional, conventional and socially approved. Partners are likely to share a system of beliefs.

Upright Career Meaning:

Success in work groups, education, teamwork, mentor

With the Hierophant, you’ll find success from working with others right now. This can sometimes mean also choosing to not rock the boat, and staying on the tried and true path. With so many variables when it comes to work, it may be better to stay safe for now. This card can also signal that group cohesion rather than individuality can be more important at the moment. Sometimes, the Hierophant can also signify a more senior mentor that can be a helpful aid in you progressing through your career. The card is also representative of education, meaning that a time of learning, whether through a school or vocational training, can be helpful for you.

Upright Finances Meaning:

Keeping your money safe, traditional financial institutions

When it comes to your finances, the Hierophant can suggest that your money should remain safe in traditional, established institutions. Novel ways of making money, whether it’s a side hustle you don’t really understand, or new financial products, may cause problems for you; avoid gambling with your money.