THE HIEROPHANT, HIGH PRIEST OR POPE______

Card V

Ruled by Taurus

The Hierophant, or Pope, is the male counterpart of the High Priestess (card II). But whereas she is concerned with intuitive wisdom, the Hierophant is more connected with concept of moral law. The title of the card originates from Ancient Greece and merely means 'Priest'. This card, like the Emperor, is connected with fatherhood. This time, though, the power is not worldly but spiritual. The triple cross and three-tiered crown featured in the card represent the divine, Intellectual and physical worlds. In Christian terms they show the trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Meaning: The Hierophant symbolizes a wise and capable advisor, forgiveness and comfort, the influence of established faith and the power of the conscious mind. The Hierophant could represent a teacher and rules to get along by. The cards following could offer advice.

Negative meaning: Bad advice, bewilderment and confusion. A crisis of faith and disorderly conduct. More positively, making one's own rules without reference to what has gone before.