The Hierophant blesses two kneeling followers between the pillars of the temple, the crossed keys at his feet. He is tradition, teaching, institutions and shared belief: learn from a master, follow the proven way, seek counsel.
Tradition, teaching and the wisdom of those who walked before you.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Marriage, alliance, captivity, servitude; mercy and goodness; inspiration; the counsellor you turn to.
Reversed
Reversed, tradition becomes a cage or is cast off: rebellion against the rules, dogma, hypocrisy in institutions, or bad advice from an authority.
Rules outgrown, a doctrine that no longer fits the soul.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Society, good understanding, concord; over-kindness, weakness.
In love
Upright A traditional bond: engagement, marriage, family blessing, shared values.
Reversed A relationship that does not fit convention, family pressure, or a union kept only out of duty.
In work
Upright Institutions, education, mentors; a good time for training, exams and established companies.
Reversed Rigid hierarchies at work, or the need to break with the rules and do it your own way.
In money
Upright Conventional, safe finances: banks, savings, the advice of an expert.
Reversed Bad financial advice, or rules that no longer serve you.
At home and in the family
Upright Family traditions, ceremonies, the wisdom of the elders; a household united by faith or values.
Reversed Conflict with the family’s beliefs, or a home that suffocates with obligations.
On your path
Upright A teacher, a tradition, a community of faith; initiation into a path that others have walked.
Reversed Your truth may lie outside the temple; question what you were taught.
Its counsel
Upright Seek a teacher or wise counsel. Follow the tried path.
Reversed Think for yourself. Do not obey a rule you no longer believe in.
Correspondences
- Arcana
- Major Arcana, card 5
- Element
- Earth
- Number
- 5
Dreams that carry this card
The Key · The Temple · Prayer
The Major Arcana
The Fool · The Magician · The High Priestess · The Empress · The Emperor · The Lovers · The Chariot · Strength · The Hermit · Wheel of Fortune · Justice · The Hanged Man · Death · Temperance · The Devil · The Tower · The Star · The Moon · The Sun · Judgement · The World