Interpreter of Mysteries Hierophant

March Psychic Ezine

Doing What’s Right In Tension with Your Independence

“What does he mean?” (the Hierophant), clients wonder when he appears in a reading. Typically, he looks stern; people bowing obsequiously in front of him; well appointed, and seated higher than all the other characters in the card. Hierophant loosely means Priest in Greek. Male, hierarchal (Hierophant), the Head of the state sanctioned religion. The Pope, for example. Using a more diffuse and softer definition, the Hierophant refers to a man who interprets religious mysteries. In possession of great wisdom, and spiritual acumen, he promises divine intervention in exchange for some form of payment.

The Hierophant is a proponent of the ancient practices of inherited, imperial hierarchy. He’s often in a close relationship with monarchy and can play a pivotal role in the lines of succession. Or rather the successful lines of succession. Not to be punny.

In personal, psychological terms, the Hierophant represents that part of ourselves that can get lazy, swallowing whole-heartedly, the guidelines of a spiritual tradition as laid out by ancestry. Because they have always been followed, the reasoning goes, they must be right and good and should continue to be followed. Without question, challenge, or even independent investigation of the truth. Too much work! Besides stepping outside our ancestral pressures to worship at a particular alter, may carry heavy consequences in inheritance, tribal approval and in some cases disfigurement and death. The toll of objection or indifference can be dire. Let’s not forget.

In classical Tarot meaning, The Hierophant card represents an adopted morality. Best practices according to a prescribed, formal religious treatise. Making commitments and adhering to them no matter how inconvenient or painful that may be. Words like pledge, promise, commitment, discipline and sacrifice are in accordance with the Hierophant. Teacher, tradition, classicism, and judgement are also relevant. If he shows up in a reading for example, about whether this single hunk of burning love is the marrying kind… well the Hierophant would suggest… yes indeed. Be warned however, his dark side might be more traditional than you might fancy.

The Hierophant from a Feminist Perspective

The Hierophant, in its classic meaning and position within the Tarot, has been described as a misogynistic figure by feminist and inclusive Tarot interpreters, like Vicki Noble and Rachel Pollock. Feminist Tarotists renamed him to open up this spiritual card to be more racially, gender, spiritually inclusive.

The ‘80’s were an exciting time for the Tarot in the western hemisphere! It burgeoned across all lines including scholarly, intuitively, and herstorically. Vicki in her Motherpeace Tarot, changed the Hierophant to Crone. A descriptor I prefer and celebrate more enthusiastically with every passing year. For obvious reasons.

The meaning was altered too. A fork in the road ahead is when the Crone appears to offer you a koan or riddle to confuse your choice even more. That’s what Spiritual Teachers and Guides are supposed to do.

The Emperor and the Hierophant

The Hierophant is 5 in the Major Arcana Tarot, not surprisingly and nearby is the Emperor at number 4. Curiously earlier than the Hierophant. The Emperor rules absolutely and the much esteemed religious leader is expected to have his back. He will lead the flock, with the heavy-weight of God’s will in his gavel, to follow the dictates of the Emperor. Without question or protest. Can be handy in times of war for example.

The Emperor looks to his religious partner for validation, guidance and protection. In exchange, the Hierophant is provided lush material comforts, security, admiration and respect demanded of the people by the Emperor. A cozy, self-aggrandizing system that keeps them all in power and rich. Oops. That pesky feminist child is always there at the ready.

These two cards together suggests that someone is wrestling against patriarchy and probably, misogyny.

Consider,

“How are you being bullied into ceding to the status quo?”

“How are you following rules that are not applicable to you anymore?”

“Why are you feeling guilty for rebelling?”

“What might this contract or commitment mean in the future, knowing you will have to muscle through it regardless of how much of a sacrifice may be demanded?”

That’s the magic of the Tarot. It prompts questions that you wouldn’t normally consider in your situation. A process that leads to more insight until you know exactly where this situation is headed. It oddly seems to randomly reach into the depths of your personal and collective unconscious and pull out precisely what you need to consider right now before making a life-altering decision. So often clients have moaned that they wished they had consulted the oracle BEFORE making that fateful decision or choice.

I wish you a glorious Spring Equinox which is only a hop away. Spring, here in winter-wonderland, is profound. The smells, sounds, visions. I lived in northern Ontario for a couple of years when I was in my teens and the smell of the earth coming back to life in the spring was truly beyond measure.

On science and religion (“the parents of art”)

“When they hold sway together, many things were made clear by intuition that were afterward relegated to the domain of superstition. Science became (in the periods of materialists) a body without a soul; an expounding of an automaton without mind or spirit.”

Cora Richmond

When we are troubled, Cora lovingly offered a special ask prayer that she channeled early in her mediumship service,

“I need the aid, and the guidance, and influence of spiritual powers.”

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You will not be disappointed

Kathleen is a true gem, warm hearted, and sweet. We have laughed together many times but she will also be brutally honest if you ask those hard questions ( cried a few times) but does it in a way that is still soothing to the soul. I recommend Kathleen in a heartbeat to anyone, you will not be disappointed

Sabrina

Kitchener, ON

FAQ – Unveiling the Hierophant: Your Questions Answered by Kathleen

Dive deeper into the Hierophant’s wisdom with Kathleen’s insights. Your burning questions about tradition, guidance, and spiritual connection await.

1. Kathleen, what makes the Hierophant different from other Major Arcana cards?

The Hierophant stands as a bridge between the spiritual and the material, a beacon of established wisdom. Unlike the more dynamic energy of the Magician or the emotional depth of the High Priestess, the Hierophant offers structure, tradition, and a pathway to understanding through established systems. It speaks to our need for belonging and guidance within a larger framework.

2. You mention the Hierophant as an “Interpreter of Mysteries.” What mysteries are we talking about?

The mysteries the Hierophant interprets are those of established spiritual and societal structures. These can range from religious doctrines and philosophical teachings to cultural norms and ethical codes. It’s about finding meaning within the established order, understanding the hidden wisdom woven into traditions.

3. If the Hierophant represents tradition, does that mean it’s always about following the rules?

Not necessarily. The Hierophant invites us to explore the why behind the rules. It’s about understanding the foundation upon which traditions are built, not blindly adhering to them. This card encourages introspection, questioning, and finding your own truth within established systems.

4. I often associate the Hierophant with religious figures. Is that the only interpretation?

While religious connotations are common, the Hierophant’s influence extends beyond formal religion. It can represent any established system of belief, including educational institutions, mentorship relationships, or even societal expectations. Think of it as the guardian of collective wisdom, regardless of its source.

5. How can I work with the Hierophant’s energy in my daily life?

Consider where you seek guidance and structure. Are you relying on established systems or forging your own path? The Hierophant encourages you to seek mentorship, engage in learning, and find meaning within your community. It’s about honoring tradition while remaining true to your individual journey.

6. In your experience, Kathleen, what’s a common misconception about the Hierophant?

Many people see the Hierophant as rigid or dogmatic. However, when understood deeply, it’s about finding inner peace and understanding through connection to something larger than yourself. It’s about finding.

7. If I get the Hierophant in a reading, what kind of advice is it offering?

The Hierophant often suggests seeking guidance from a trusted mentor, exploring established teachings, or finding a sense of belonging within a community. It may also indicate a need to reflect on your beliefs and values, ensuring they align with your authentic self.

8. How does the Hierophant’s energy relate to personal growth?

Growth through the Hierophant comes from understanding and integrating established wisdom into your own life. It encourages you to learn from the past, build upon existing foundations, and find your unique role within a larger context. It’s about evolving within a framework, rather than rejecting it outright.

9. Where can I learn more about the Hierophant and your approach to tarot?

Kathleen’s insights into the Hierophant offer a fresh perspective on this often misunderstood card. Explore the mysteries and find your own path to understanding. https://www.tarotbykathleen.ca/