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V. The Hierophant

Spiritual Teacher and Guardian of Tradition

The Hierophant Tarot card

Symbolism and Meaning

The Hierophant (also called the Pope or the High Priest) is the masculine counterpart of the High Priestess. While she guards esoteric and secret knowledge, he is the teacher of open, religious and social knowledge. He sits on a throne between two pillars, which symbolises his role as a bridge between heaven and earth, between the gods and people.

His triple crown (tiara) refers to three levels of consciousness: the subconscious, the conscious and the superconscious. In his hand he holds a triple cross, and at his feet lie two crossed keys - symbols of spiritual and earthly knowledge. The gesture of blessing he makes is a sign of passing on wisdom and grace.

This card represents belief systems, tradition and organised religion, but also education and social norms. The Hierophant teaches us that freedom requires an understanding of the rules. He is the archetype of the sage, the mentor and the spiritual father who shows the moral path and helps us find meaning in the chaos of life.

Interpretation of the Card

In a spread, the Hierophant often points to the need to listen to the advice of someone wiser or more experienced. He may herald a wedding, a christening or another religious ceremony. He suggests that the solution to the problem is to follow a proven path rather than to experiment. It is a time for learning, spiritual growth and searching for a deeper meaning.

Upright
  • A spiritual guide, a mentor
  • Tradition, conventions, religion
  • Marriage, sacraments, ceremonies
  • Education, study, gaining knowledge
  • Morality and ethics
  • Belonging to a group or institution
  • Searching for the meaning of life
Reversed
  • Rebellion against authority
  • Religious fanaticism or sectarianism
  • Hypocrisy, a false prophet
  • Rejecting tradition, nonconformity
  • Bad advice, manipulation
  • Feeling trapped by rules
  • Moral scandals

Card Attributes

Number: V (Five)
Archetype: The Saint, the Teacher, the Pope
Element: Earth (stability and structure)
Keywords: Faith, tradition, learning, authority, blessing, principles.
Astrology: Taurus (the sign of stability and tradition)
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