The Hierophant

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The Hierophant

Tradition • Religion • Conformity

Representing conformity, following orders, and doing the right thing, The High Priestess brings order and peace to groups of people whether they are bound by religion, school, companies, or society. The Hierophant leaves virtually no room for making your own path but instead asks that you trust the ideas of the people, maybe your family, role models, or authority figures, who came before you. In particularly unstable times, this may be exactly what you need.

The Hierophant is the advisor to the Emperor like the High Priestess is to the Empress. As card 5, an odd number, they are in a space that is by nature insecure. Represented by a religious text, the Hierophant serves an important purpose in teaching and bringing up society. The Hierophant represents a realm where structure and assigned roles emphasize belief systems, which creates a common goal among people.

If you get this card in a reading, it suggests that you have a desire to follow due process and to stay within the conventional bounds of the status quo. Instead of being innovative, it may be helpful to adapt to the existing set of beliefs and systems that are already in place. To act responsibly, you may need to do what is expected of you at this time.

The Hierophant Reversed

Confusion • Restriction • Challenge

The reversed Hierophant can be a sign that other people don’t understand where you are coming from and you yourself may be confused. To show your course of action is the right one, point to the past. Doing this may help strengthen your argument for yourself as well.

The Hierophant reversed can also mean an overbearing authority that is afraid to try new things. You may feel restricted or pressure to conform. Keep in mind though that even as the Hierophant is firmly set in their beliefs, they are relatively easy to please. If you received this card in reverse, it may be time to learn how to live with this authority rather than acting rebellious.