5 | The Hierophant
Model, Tyler Mello
“When the pupil is ready the teacher appears.”
-Yogi Ramacharaka (William Walker Atkinson), Fourteen Lessons in Yogi Philosophy and Oriental Occultism
The Hierophant is card number 5 in the Tarot’s Major Arcana. In numerology, the number 5 is associated with the vibration of intellectual curiosity, adventure, communication, adaptability, freedom, and innovation. A number seen as the balance between the material and spiritual aspects of life.
The Hierophant is the high priest of the Major Arcana, representing tradition, higher learning, and an established set of spiritual values and beliefs, sometimes associated with religion. Unlike his counterpart, The High Priestess, who encourages the individual path, The Hierophant shows the value and importance of learning in a classroom setting and what’s gained from an established order. He opens the door to those seeking enlightenment, emphasizing the foundation of a strong practice comes from learning the fundamental principles, and from there, a solid foundation of knowledge can grow. Illuminating the benefits of formal study, The Hierophant has earned his knowledge and rank through prestigious study. Engaging in collaborative learning from a school system or an esteemed mentor brings knowledge and insight hidden from those who only seek to learn alone.
General Meaning - Tradition, spiritual and religious beliefs, community, mentorship, higher learning, hierarchy, structure, & established schools
When out of alignment - Rigidity, bureaucracy, questioning authority, disconnect from community, ignorance, & dogmatic practices
Navigating The Hierophant’s archetypal energy-
Having grown up Catholic, this was a card I initially struggled to connect with. It felt dated, preachy, and ‘holier than thou’ to me in the way it’s depicted in the Rider Waite Smith deck. It wasn’t until I was providing readings at a public event that its meaning came through for me, finally allowing me to better understand and connect with it. At this particular event, it continuously appeared as a card representing a trusted and valued therapist. Since this experience, I now connect with this card as a therapist, teacher/professor, spiritual community, and a spiritual leader who creates sacred spaces, and have a newfound appreciation for its need and role played.
When working with this card’s archetypal energy, reflect on teachers, spiritual or academic, that you hold in high esteem and the classes you’ve taken that have shaped your path. There’s so much value to be gained from working with an established system of beliefs that resonates with you. Learning is something everyone should continually strive for in school years and beyond. A curious mind and desire to learn will open all the right doors!
In this card, we see our Hierophant standing in front of a bright white and ornate gazebo on the green of a college, radiating warmth and compassion for his students who walk on shared paths. On top of the structure, we see a cross indicating the religious and sacred connection with the setting, letting us know it’s an important and respected area of learning. We can also see a pair of crossed golden keys on the top of the structure, representing the balance of the conscious and subconscious mind, indicating The Hierophant’s ability to unlock the mysteries for his students. We see his blazer tucked atop his briefcase, which dons the symbol of the Papal Cross representing hierarchy and spiritual authority. This is a beloved and well-respected Hierophant, who has created a sacred and cherished place of learning.
Next up, connecting with the romantic energy of The Lovers. Stay tuned for the next card release in The Green Mountain Major Arcana’s journey next Friday, 5/30!
With love,
Megan Gonzalez
