The Hierophant Tarot Card Meaning

The Hierophant Tarot Card Meaning

The Hierophant tarot card, the fifth card in the Major Arcana sequence of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck, features a man in a sacred temple who is unmistakably a religious figure. Seated between two pillars within a temple distinct from the High Priestess

The Hierophant, akin to the High Priestess, embodies structure and tradition as the masculine counterpart to her feminine energy. As a grand priest overseeing all significant aspects of life, the Hierophant signifies formal doctrines and spiritual guidance. This card is rich in symbolism, featuring twin pillars, an ornate staff, the triple crown of the Pope, a majestic throne, a hand outstretched in benediction (similar to the Magician), and two disciples, all of which represent the Hierophant's commanding presence and role in one's spiritual journey.


In the tarot narrative, the story progresses from the Emperor, representing power, authority, and wisdom, to the Hierophant, who offers spiritual wisdom, guidance, and instruction. This transition reflects a shift from worldly authority to spiritual mentorship, further enhancing one's journey of self-discovery, spiritual beliefs, and personal growth. The Hierophant's teachings and guidance set the foundation for the choices and relationships represented by the next card, the Lovers. By incorporating the wisdom imparted by both the Emperor and the Hierophant, one becomes better equipped to navigate the complexities of love, relationships, and personal values that The Lovers card symbolizes. This progression demonstrates the continuous unfolding of the tarot story and the multifaceted aspects of human experience.

The Upright Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings

The Hierophant in a General Reading Tarot Meanings

The Hierophant tarot card represents an established set of spiritual beliefs and values, often correlated with religious beliefs and formal doctrines. Before fully embracing your belief systems and making your own choices (as associated with the next card, The Lovers), The Hierophant upright encourages you to learn the fundamental principles of traditional values from a trusted source. This will allow you to remain open-minded during your continued expansion moving forward in your tarot reading journey.


The Hierophant card indicates the presence of a mentor, teacher, or spiritual guide in your life who will assist you on your spiritual journey. This card suggests that a spiritual advisor may come into your life to provide guidance or answer questions about your life path or relationship with God/source energy. Through this person's spiritual wisdom, you'll learn to control your psychic abilities successfully, allowing them to manifest appropriately. New abilities may feel overwhelming at first, especially during a sudden awakening; however, seek the guidance of this newfound teacher. Their core principles will set you up on an excellent path for your own life, and you can trust that they're here to help you.

Free Printable Images of the Hierophant Upright Meaning of the Rider Waite Tarot Decks, the fifth card of the Major Arcana Card. The keywords are: Servitude, Conformity, Religious Beliefs, Traditional Values, Spiritual Practices, Spiritual or Religious Heritage, Conscious and Subconscious Minds

The Hierophant Love & Relationships Tarot Meanings

If you're single and searching for someone special, the Hierophant love meaning suggests you may meet your soulmate soon. Receiving this card in a tarot reading is a good sign that your relationship with this person will last a lifetime and be full of happiness and joy. As for meeting places, the Hierophant upright suggests you may encounter them through your spiritual practice or religious group, as this card is heavily tied to spiritual values.


In a tarot love reading, The Hierophant symbolizes significant commitment. For those already in relationships, the Hierophant tarot card in your love life indicates that you've finally found your soulmate and are ready to settle into a committed relationship. You'll need to work together to move forward smoothly—the upright Hierophant represents teamwork and collaboration above all else.

If marriage doesn't interest either of you right now (or ever), don't worry: The Hierophant in romantic relationships could still indicate an important commitment between two partners—such as moving in together or having children!

The Hierophant Tarot Card in Finance & Career Tarot Readings

When the Hierophant tarot card appears in career readings, it serves as a reminder to find your calling in life and commit to it. Your work should bring you a deep sense of satisfaction, not just something you know how to do.


At other times, the Hierophant in a career context signals that new things are coming your way. You're ready to take on new responsibilities at work - a promotion may be coming your way, or that transfer to another department is finally getting approved; maybe you're even changing companies! While working with new colleagues, one may become a mentor to guide you through the core principles of the institution you're working for. They will likely be someone with plenty of spiritual wisdom they are happy to pass on to you.


The Hierophant tarot card meaning in finance, is about having a steady income each month and saving or investing some of it for the future. You're learning to make smart investments to keep growing your net worth while keeping an eye on retirement savings or other long-term plans like life insurance or long-term care insurance.

The Hierophant Tarot Card Meaning in Health & Wellness

When the Hierophant tarot card appears during a health reading, it suggests you're seeking the best way to achieve your healthy lifestyle goals. The upright Hierophant is known for offering guidance and support during challenging times, so don't hesitate to seek advice from someone you admire.


In a spiritual context, the Hierophant encourages you to connect with your ancestors and explore your family traditions or religious heritage. You're urged to commit to an established spiritual practice in its purest form – without customization, adaptation, or bending the rules. The Hierophant advises finding a ritual or tradition that brings fulfillment and structure to your daily life.


When engaging with a religious group or spiritual community, the appearance of the Hierophant tarot card can signal upcoming marriages, baptisms, or visits to religious centers. Look at surrounding cards to see if you or someone you care about may be getting married or attending a wedding soon.


The Reversed Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings

The Reversed Hierophant Tarot Card Meaning in General Readings

The Hierophant reversed meaning symbolizes the desire to break free from excessive structures and established beliefs while embracing your own rules. However, you might be desperately clinging to your old ways, accompanied by guilt and shame for going against the religious beliefs and values you were raised with. Though others may not understand your desire to shake things up, learning to live by your own rules could be necessary for your spiritual growth. Going against the status quo can result in total freedom.


Alternatively, the reversed Hierophant tarot card meaning can suggest an unnecessary episode of rebellion against traditional, long-held ideals and spiritual values belonging to your lineage. It's essential to examine the influence of family traditions observed between generations and honor family traditions. Your support system is built upon this structure, so be cautious not to damage your relationship with those among your spiritual or religious heritage. If this resonates with you, consider which aspects of your life could use spiritual direction and guidance, and seek a mentor.



The Reversed Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings in Love & Relationships

Free Printable Images of the Hierophant Reversed Meaning of the Rider Waite Tarot Decks, the fifth card of the Major Arcana. The listed keywords are: Poor Counsel, Defying Authority, Feeling Restrained, Too Many Structures, Corrupt Religious Figures, Rejection of Family Values, Going Against the Status Quo

In a love tarot reading, the Hierophant reversed meaning suggests an obstacle preventing you from attaining what you desire. Something in your relationship may be hard to pinpoint, causing a nagging feeling that doesn't seem to fade. Your partner needs to be more honest with their spiritual values and what they're seeking or who they are. Regardless of what's happening behind the scenes, when the Hierophant reversed tarot card appears, like its counterpart, the High Priestess, it reminds you to trust your intuition and your conscious and subconscious minds. Believe in your potential to create a beautiful life and become more open to new experiences.


The Hierophant reversed can also draw attention to our behaviors. This card symbolizes wisdom, love, romance, and stability in its upright version. When reversed, the Hierophant cautions that you may be too controlling of others, particularly in a relationship. You might impose your will or beliefs on someone or dictate their life choices. Ultimately, this card appears in a tarot reading as a reminder not to lose ourselves entirely in a relationship.

The Reversed Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings in Career & Finance

In a career context, the reversed Hierophant card meaning advises you to slow down and reevaluate your goals. You could be overworking yourself or in a job that doesn't provide fulfillment. You may also be too caught up in one aspect, neglecting other areas of your own life like family, relationships, and friendships. It may be time for a change.


Financially, the Hierophant reversed tarot card advises you to act conservatively in a tarot reading. Consider whether you genuinely need that new pair of shoes or a new television. This card encourages you to think twice before spending your money and to save for days when you need it.

The Reversed Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings in Health & Wellness

In a tarot reading, the reversed Hierophant meaning can imply that you are not taking your health seriously and are neglecting self-care. A reversed Hierophant may appear when there's an imbalance in your lifestyle, such as regularly eating junk food, neglecting exercise, or excessive drinking or drug use. The Hierophant reversed tarot meanings advise against these behaviors, which can have severe health consequences over time. Trust your intuition, and if needed, seek guidance from a mentor or spiritual advisor to help you find balance and restore your well-being.

The Hierophant: Visual Elements & Symbolism

The Hierophant Planet, Zodiac Sign, Element & Modality


The Hierophant Planet - Venus


The Hierophant Zodiac Sign - Taurus


The Hierophant Element - Earth


The Hierophant Modality - Fixed

A picture collage of the hierophant tarot cards, taurus, venus, earth symbols.

The Hierophant Associated Crystals

Lapis Lazuli: This crystal resonates with the Hierophant's wisdom and spiritual guidance, promoting inner truth and self-awareness.


Sodalite: Enhances intuition and deepens spiritual understanding, reflecting the Hierophant's role as a mentor and guide.


Amethyst: A powerful spiritual stone that aids meditation and spiritual growth, aligning with the Hierophant's dedication to spiritual development.


Clear Quartz: Amplifies energy and intention, helping manifest the spiritual wisdom and guidance the Hierophant offers.

Labradorite: Stimulates spiritual transformation and heightens intuition, mirroring the Hierophant's role in leading others through their spiritual journey.


Black Tourmaline: Provides grounding and protection, reflecting the Hierophant's role in maintaining spiritual order and stability.


Blue Kyanite: Enhances communication and self-expression, enabling the Hierophant to share spiritual wisdom and guidance with others effectively.


Malachite: A powerful transformational stone that encourages spiritual growth and supports the Hierophant's role in guiding others on their spiritual path.

*Prices shown are in Canadian Dollars (CAD)

Symbolism in The Hierophant Card

Triple-Tiered Crown: Represents the conscious, subconscious, and superconscious minds, highlighting the spiritual wisdom only he possesses'.


Two Keys: Symbolize the keys to spiritual wisdom and the path to unlocking hidden truths, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance and exploring the depths of one's spirituality.


Twin Pillars: These represent duality, balance, and the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds, highlighting the Hierophant's role as a bridge between the two realms.

A closeup of the triple-tiered Crown, two keys & twin pillars.

Left Hand Holding the Triple Cross: Indicates the Hierophant's grounding in tradition, his role in maintaining spiritual order and stability, and his connection to the Holy Ghost. These basic symbols represent the divine aspect of the Hierophant's teachings and guidance.


Majestic Throne: Symbolizes the Hierophant's position of power as his own teacher, respect, and spiritual influence.


Hand Raised in Benediction: Represents the Hierophant's act of blessing and bestowing spiritual wisdom upon his followers, guiding them towards enlightenment.

a closeup of the ornate staff, majestic throne, and hand raised.

Two Disciples: Depict the Hierophant's role as a teacher and mentor, helping others to navigate their spiritual paths and seek higher understanding.


Three Robes: Denote the Hierophant's devotion to his spiritual calling, representing his commitment to guiding others through their spiritual growth.


a closeup of the two disciples, three robes & fixed modality

Questions About The Hierophant Card

What Does the Hierophant Tarot Card Mean as a Person or Personality?

Known as The Pope or the High Priest, the Hierophant represents guidance and knowledge. This card embodies the archetypal father figure who has earned his title through experience and wisdom passed down across generations.


The Hierophant signifies the importance of listening to your elders when they offer advice. If someone older shares guidance on how to live your own life, it's likely because their insights are valuable. Avoid disregarding their wisdom due to youthful rebellion.


Additionally, the Hierophant can represent parents or other authority figures who have guided us since childhood, as they taught us essential life lessons.

Is the Hierophant Tarot Card Meaning Positive, Negative, or Neutral?

The Hierophant is a neutral card. While it does influence your reading, it isn't one of the cards that will significantly impact your outcome. Instead, it represents advice to consider.

What Does the Hierophant Tarot Card Mean as a Yes or No?

The Hierophant tarot card is neither a clear yes nor a clear no, as its meaning is more nuanced. It represents the pursuit of spiritual wisdom, guidance, and traditional values. When this card appears in response to a yes or no question, it encourages you to consider the role of these aspects in your situation. The Hierophant suggests that you may gain the insights necessary to make the best decision by seeking guidance from a spiritual advisor or trusted mentor.

What Does the Hierophant Tarot Card Mean in Past, Present & Future Positions?

When the Hierophant appears in the past position, it highlights the impact of traditional values, spiritual guidance, or mentorship on your past experiences. It suggests that you may have grown up in a structured environment or adhered to established beliefs, which have shaped your current situation. Reflect on the lessons you've learned from these experiences and how they've influenced your own life.


In the present position, the Hierophant shows that you're currently seeking wisdom or guidance, perhaps in a spiritual or religious context. This card encourages you to explore traditional values or consult with a mentor to help you navigate your current situation. It may also indicate that you're becoming more involved with a spiritual community or religious group, which could provide valuable support and insights.


The Hierophant in the future position indicates that you'll soon experience growth in your spiritual journey. This growth may come from embracing traditional values or seeking guidance from a spiritual advisor, mentor, or religious figure. The Hierophant encourages you to stay open to these experiences, as they will bring you closer to your true path and provide a deeper understanding of your beliefs and purpose.

Wishing you love & light,
Victoria

Free Printable Cheat Sheet: The Hierophant Tarot Card Description of the Major Arcana (Rider Waite Tarot Decks)

Free Printable Images of the Hierophant Tarot Card Key Words Cheatsheet with the picture of the upright and reversed Hierophant tarot cards of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck and the upright and reversed associated key words.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

More Tarot Card Meanings

The Chariot Tarot Card Meaning - Light Of Twelve

Discover the multifaceted world of the Chariot tarot card, a compelling symbol within the tarot deck that embodies the themes of motion, willpower, and triumph. Our comprehensive blog, "The Chariot Tarot Card Meaning," delves deep into the chariot tarot card meaning, offering insightful interpretations that resonate with both novices and seasoned tarot readers alike.

We explore the imagery of the chariot tarot card description, where the majestic chariot tarot card depicts a determined charioteer, driven by the dual sphinxes representing life's opposing forces. Whether you’re focusing on chariot tarot love, chariot tarot career, or other aspects of your own life, understand how the chariot tarot meaning can signal a time of spiritual transformation and the need for self-discipline.

Dive into the dynamics of the reversed chariot and upright chariot positions. The upright chariot invites you to harness your inner determination and focused action to overcome obstacles and move forward with confidence. Conversely, the reversed chariot cautions against potential setbacks or the need to regain control of opposing directions in life.

Our blog features detailed analyses of the chariot card within different tarot spread contexts — from love life to career paths — highlighting how the chariot tarot card meanings evolve with each question and intention. Unveil the secrets of tarot reading with a special emphasis on how the chariot appears, asking you to remain confident even in a very literal sense, whether that's overcoming life's challenges or embracing hard-won victories.

Understand the chariot’s connections to other alchemical symbols, the cancer zodiac sign — represented by the crescent moons on the shoulders of the charioteer — and how it embodies the essence of spiritual evolution and inner charioteer mastery. The blog addresses the chariot tarot love meaning, the material world versus spirituality readings, and how the chariot suggests taking the reins of your life firmly in your own hands.

We also explore the chariot forward movement in various dimensions of life — from the white sphinxes symbolizing knowledge and challenge to the star crown signifying higher wisdom. Whether the chariot card's lucky number inspires you, or its intricate connection with the major arcana's journey towards enlightenment intrigues, our blog provides a deep dive into one of the most complex cards in the tarot deck.

With a mix of ancient wisdom and modern interpretations, "The Chariot Tarot Card Meaning" blog is your ultimate guide to understanding this dynamic tarot card's place in your tarot readings, personal growth, and the quest for taking control of your own destiny. Join us as we traverse the path of the chariot tarot card meanings, learning to master the art of balanced progress and embracing the spiritual and romantic nature of the chariot's journey.

Read more