LEARN TO DO YOUR OWN TAROT READINGSHierophant - Card 5 in The Major Arcana
A male figure wearing a rich, white trimmed, red robe. He sits on a carved throne between two similarly carved pillars. In his left hand he holds a golden sceptre and his other hand is raised as if in blessing. At his feet are two monk-like figures who appear to be kneeling. Between the monks are two crossed golden keys.
In some Tarot sets this figure is called the Pope. It has been speculated that the Pope represented was Innocent III but there is no way of proving this.
This card is number 5. Number 5 represents inspiration, creative thought and moral law. The keys at the feet of the Hierophant are the keys which unlock the gates of heaven or hell. The pillars symbolise the support of the established church. The Hierophant is the symbol of wisdom and the giver of traditional wisdom. His golden crown denotes his wisdom and the golden sceptre is a crook showing him as the shepherd of his flock.
This card in a reading:
Upright: Good advice and spiritual guidance. Like his female counterpart, the High Priestess, the Hierophant reveals hidden knowledge and offers the comfort of religious belief.
Reversed: Hidden knowledge, poor advice, the power that comes from dissembling. Superstition.
Summary: Take good advice.
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