Hierophant

Upright
Maintaining Tradition
Developing spiritual discipline
Reversed
Trying to conform
Overcoming ignorance
 

Tarot Major Arcana

The Major Arcana Tarot cards (also known as the trump cards) form the foundation of the Tarot deck and consists of twenty-one numbered cards and one unnumbered card (the Fool).

They represent a path to spiritual self-awareness and depict the various stages we encounter as we search for greater meaning and understanding. In this way, they hold deeply meaningful lessons.

The Major Arcana Tarot card meanings illustrate the structure of human consciousness and, as such, hold the keys to life lessons passed down through the ages. The imagery of the Major Arcana Tarot cards is filled with wisdom from multiple cultures and esoteric traditions

Hierophant

“To make the mind obey you is a spiritual discipline“

Representing traditional values and institutions, the Hierophant is the final leg of the triad seen in the Emperor and Empress cards. The Hierophant is a mentor or counselor who provides you guidance and wisdom to face life challenges. He is the male counterpart of the High Priestess and occupies fifth place in the Major Arcana cards. The image of Shiva represents traditional values and the significance of spiritual and religious domains in life. The raised right hand symbolizes the act of benediction and blessings. The trishula in the left hand symbolizes trinity, the father, the son, and the Holy Ghost.

The two devotees sitting in front of him denote the transfer of knowledge within institutions. The two half-person represent that many people know half of the reality and half is always hidden. Only the curious souls try to uncover what lies beneath. They also represent one’s will to follow the path of sacred knowledge and wisdom. The temples in the background represent holy sanctity and the religious authority of the Hierophant. The keys he wore in his neck imply the balance between conscious and subconscious minds and disclosing ambiguities. The bull behind Shiva relates this card to the fixed zodiac sign Taurus and refers to stubborn nature, virility, stamina, and purpose in life.

The appearance of the card of wisdom and spirituality reveals your spiritual realization and your will to follow the traditions on the path of knowledge. You might feel restricted by the traditions, but the card suggests you follow established structures and traditions. The Hierophant represents your core values and recommends that you must adhere to the existing rules and regulations.

The draw of this card reveals that you are entitled to lead others, so learn everything about your chosen field for establishing your credibility. Be determined and focus on realizing your goals. Your determination and perseverance reveal that you are destined to reach the top position in your realm. Following rules makes you disciplined and organized in your efforts and ensures success in everything you do in your personal and professional space.

Reversed Hierophant Meaning :

When this card appears reversed in your draw, it suggests that your life is becoming boring and stale. You crave non-conformity, openness, and freedom because you feel restricted by following set traditions and rules. Remember, your rebellion can deprive you of your control and authority. Instead of questioning the reality, focus on fulfilling your responsibilities and understand the situation. Change is not bad, but to bring reforms, you first have to develop a profound understanding of the system that you want to change.