The Hierophant
The Hierophant, represented by a hardy Scottish Blackface ram, symbolizes tradition, stability, structure, and enduring knowledge. Upright, it advises following established rules and methods, finding security and new understanding within familiar systems. It encourages perceptive passivity, respect for guiding traditions, and the use of existing structures to achieve success. Reversed, it calls for adaptation, questioning authority, and breaking from convention to discover a personal path and new routine. Overall, the card balances respect for tradition with the recognition that change is inevitable and wisdom can be found in many places.
Keywords
Title
The Hierophant
Animal
Scottish Blackface Ram
Fun fact
The blackface ram is an old breed of sheep with origins dating as far back as 800AD. They are very hardy and can put up with cold, wind and rain. Their wool was used by monks in the twelfth century for their own clothing and it continues to be used to make cloths in the modern era. The origins of the breed are uncertain, but we do know that it was developed on the Anglo-Scottish border.
Keywords
Tradition, Conformity, Institutional
Reversed keywords
Rebellion, Reversal, Unconventional
Meaning
A ram stands poised between two pillars, yoked in a triangle. Though rams are aggressive creatures, they symbolize stability, structure, and eternity. This specific ram is a hearty breed that can survive in a number of exposed environments; their ability to survive may seem unthinkable, but they understand their dominion well, far better than most, and can therefore thrive. The Hierophant is likewise able to find stability in his dominion over the conscious, subconscious, and super-conscious. Though seen as a beacon of tradition, the Hierophant is knowledgeable and can flow well with change. We are reminded to find knowledge in all places, to uphold our values and follow our morals, but remember that change is inevitable.
When upright
When upright, the Hierophant tells the user that their current placement in life is or should be steeped in established tradition. There is stability in the tried and true, and if you’re about to start a new phase in your life, you should keep in mind that keeping to established rules and methods will yield success. Now is not the time to strike out on your own and try something different. Even if you feel like you’re needlessly retracing your own steps, try to seek new understanding based on the structures in your life that are already in place. You could glean some new information from a seemingly familiar perspective. While you may feel restless, know that filling the mold will provide answers that you may or may not actively be seeking. Be passive but perceptive. There are guiding forces working in your favor.
Reversed meaning
Adaptation is key to a fruitful life. When reversed, the Hierophant suggests that the user step away from the status quo. If this is your first time breaking from tradition, it can seem scary. If you’ve been bursting at the seams waiting to be free, now is your time to let loose. No matter your level of experience, you’re ready to separate from the herd and strike out on your own. You’ll need to find a path that works best for you and soon fall into your own routine (and eventual tradition). Trust yourself from mind to soul to carry you forward, and don’t be afraid to walk to a different beat. Question the established way that things are done. Do they align with your own values? If not, then it’s time to leave them behind. It may lead to friction from those who don’t share your views, but this is how it’s meant to be. Choose your path to the best of your abilities and be confident in what comes next.
Visual Description
A large pale ram with spiraled horns stands on a swirling cloud against a dark, star-speckled sky. Two tall, jagged rock pillars rise on either side of the animal and a faint triangular shape frames it from behind. Delicate gold linework highlights the ram and the landscape, and the title 'HIEROPHANT' is printed in gold lettering along the bottom.
Oriens tarot
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