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NOVEMBER 2009

The Hierophant, Key V – Major Arcana (Pope Card)

by Peggy Firth, Certified Tarot Master

Above: The Hierophant, Robin Wood Tarot Deck

This rather stern and religious looking card represents the ‘inner teacher’ which knows the truth, rather than the ego whose wants and needs are often at odds with the higher nature. Often the truth is recognized by the conscious mind which states, “I just have this gut feeling, or it just feels right.”

The Hierophant of the traditional Rider Waite deck sits on a throne between two stone pillars. The color gray of the stone, a mixture of white and black, stands for the perfect balance of man’s nature, a complimentary balance of yin and yang or perfection and its shadow side.

There are many spiritual symbols shown all throughout this card that pertain to wisdom and truth. The gold crown is a triple tiara symbolizing wisdom and energy. The outer robe is red, the color of energy. The white bib of truth shows that the Hierophant will answer questions truthfully. The blue undergarment has the same significance as the High Priestess. Under the blue garment is the white garment of the Fool. The many crosses that are scattered throughout the garment, shoes and crossed keys represent the union of the male and female forces. The left hand of this androgynous figure has a gold staff which symbolizes the life-power through all planes of nature. The crossed keys, one gold (sun) and the other silver (moon), at the foot of the Hierophant refer to the papacy. These also stand for the meridians or nerve currents of the human body. The priests kneeling at the foot of the Hierophant wear robes decorated with flowers. Roses represent passion and lilies spiritual aspirations.

Some decks include the occult ancient Hebrew wisdom Vau (nail or hook) which refers to joining parts of a building together, meaning a link or union.

Drawing this card in the upright position represents an authoritative teacher who wishes to give advice relating to the truth of the situation. It may also involve looking at a conflict between values, needs and ways of working together. A wider viewpoint or creative way of regarding the situation/challenge is called for.

Drawing this card in the reverse position calls for more understanding, acknowledgement or having only partial knowledge of a situation. The reversed position also points towards seeking more guidance/information or even a mentor for advice. Other meanings point towards rigid thinking. This card may require some digging to illuminate the true meaning.

TIPS TO INTERPRETING THE TAROT

Formulate the exact meaning from your first impression(s). The function of SYMBOLS is to create a bridge between the subconscious and conscious mind.

Study all of the symbology and overall meaning of each card and own them for reference.
Subjective level is more of a feeling that coincides with imagery.
Remember that the individual meaning of a card changes according to:

Placement in spread which indicates one particular question in the theme of the reading.

Association of cards in the arrangement of spread (Dignities)

Overall question.

Reversal or Upright.

Listen to the querent whose question(s) have the beginning of answers.
Confirmation is all that the querent needs and “knows.”
Remember that 50% of the perceived issue/situation is relieved when articulated.
Querent wants to know if he/she will survive in tact, or have some kind of positive outcome.
Leave the querent feeling empowered and smiling.

NO projections – what you know should be done may not be in the best interest of the querent. Ask questions in order to illicit the answers most appropriate to the reading.

Remember, if you enable someone, you interfere with their KARMA.

NO predictions, just examine the possibilities. Choice and free will are a person’s divine birthright.