5 - The Hierophant
Note: This guide is based on the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck. Other tarot decks may have unique meanings, or some of these meanings may not apply.
| Upright Keywords: | Structure, traditions, divine knowledge, social norms, servitude |
| Reversed Keywords: | Changing foundations, breaking out of patterns, rebellion, weakness |
The Hierophant sits in front of two stone pillars, dressed in bright red, priestly robes adorned with crosses and a golden papal tiara. His right hand is raised with two fingers extended as a sign of blessing, and his left holds a scepter styled as a triple cross.
Below the Hierophant's dais, two tonsured individuals sit or kneel in floral robes - red roses and white lilies. Between them are two crossed keys.
In Readings: Upright
The Hierophant is a religious figure, deliberately papal in style. He has both divine wisdom and, importantly, authority within religious and/or spiritual sects.
This card represents structure, tradition, and morality as defined by the primary powers in the world. It sometimes can indicate a particular person in this position of power, but it can also represent the system as a whole.
It's important to remember with this card that where this is an authority figure, there are those who follow their lead. This card suggests a hierarchy, which may not always be good or fair, even if it's the "expected" way for things to be.
Card Combinations:
Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.
Ace of Swords: The mind of the recipient of divine wisdom is strengthened and invigorated on the quest for conquest.
The Magician: You have acquired the expected skills, and now you must put them to use as appropriate.
Six of Pentacles: Charity comes from an established foundation, such as a charitable organization in your area.
The High Priestess, reversed: You are choosing to favor the established norms over your intuition; is that right?
In Readings: Reversed
In reverse, the divine authority of the Hierophant has turned to impotence. It suggests that the overarching structure itself is flawed. A reversed Hierophant could also indicate a weakness of faith.
Depending on how it's paired, this could be a positive or negative thing. This card can also suggest rebellion, breaking patterns, and leaving oppressive situations behind.
Card Combinations
Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.
Four of Wands: Rebelling against tradition lays the groundwork for a more harmonious future for you, personally.
Wheel of Fortune, reversed: The underlying structure is crumbling, and nothing is certain. There is nothing to be done but hold on and hope for the best at this point.
The Hermit: When respected and established structures let you down, turn to your inner voice for guidance and learn to rely on yourself.
The Emperor, reversed: Impotent leaders behind tyrannical structures. Submit to neither.
Other Perspectives
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