The Hierophant Tarot Card Combinations and Meanings
![]() V The Hierophant Correspondences:
Astrology: Associated with Taurus Element: Earth Keywords & phrases: Tradition and convention, conformity. Institutions. The Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings Traditionally this card was known as The Pope (Le Pape.) The English Oxford dictionary defines hierophant as, “A person, especially a priest, who interprets sacred mysteries or esoteric principles,” which broadens the brushstroke slightly. (I’m always asked about the name.) Whichever title, the image is usually consistent to the appearance of a religious leader. The Hierophant Tarot card indicates following a conventional path and the traditional values of society. It can sometimes represent the traditional family unit but also marriage, particularly when appearing with other marriage cards. This is a card of conforming to certain standards; an accepted set of structures and expectations. Recognised institutions are often indicated by this card too. The Hierophant may suggest a wise guide and knowledgeable teacher, someone we hold in high regard that can provide advice and assistance as we integrate our spiritual perspective into the earthly and material plane. With the Hierophant we follow the path and work within the rules, tow the line, and do what is expected from us by developing and following our moral compass. If reversed or badly aspected it may show feeling restricted by structure or a dogmatic approach, lacking moral fibre or principles, rejecting conformity, a crisis of faith, or hypocritical guidance. ![]() You'll find more information to help you in Easy Tarot: Learn to Read the Cards Once and For All! book and card set. Available from bookshops and online:
Llewellyn, Amazon.com, Amazon UK, & Wordery The Hierophant Tarot Combinations & Meanings
![]() The Hierophant and The Fool
The Hierophant represents tradition and spiritual guidance. When followed by The Fool, it may suggest embarking on a new path and non-traditional journey, challenging norms, and seeking personal truths outside of established conventions. It may be time to embrace unconventional wisdom. ![]() The Hierophant and The Magician
The Hierophant followed by The Magician can suggest taking an innovative approach with traditional and structured systems to manifest unique solutions. Blending wisdom and creativity can produce a powerful outcome. For some, it may suggest achieving mastery through mentoring guidance or learning institution. ![]() The Hierophant and The High Priestess
The Hierophant followed by The High Priestess can indicate a journey from structured spirituality to intuitive wisdom. Seek hidden truths and trust inner guidance with external traditional teachings and internal revelations, which can lead to profound insights. ![]() The Hierophant and The Empress
The Hierophant followed by The Empress brings warmth to a structured situation, so it yields to a softer stance being taken to the rigid conformity of set values and brings progress. Combine structured beliefs with nurturing energy for flourishing growth. Explore traditional values in creative endeavours. Institutions connected to children may be relevant for some. ![]() The Hierophant and The Emperor
This combination can represent higher authorities within a large organisation or formal institution. Adopt structured wisdom and then apply it assertively. Combine tradition with strength and strategic control for effective governance and personal empowerment. For some it may suggest following a strict moral code. ![]() The Hierophant and The Lovers
The Hierophant followed by The Lovers can represent a formal commitment to a relationship; marriage may be on the cards for some, as it blends traditional values with an intimate union. Combine wisdom with love to foster deeper relationships, guided by shared beliefs and emotional harmony. ![]() The Hierophant and The Chariot
The Hierophant leading to The Chariot may suggest spiritual or moral guidance propelling determined action. Embrace structured beliefs and then drive forward with conviction. Align tradition with a focused will to overcome obstacles and triumph through disciplined and purposeful pursuits. ![]() The Hierophant and Strength
The Hierophant followed by Strength suggests courage through faith, combining spiritual wisdom with inner fortitude. Embrace traditional teachings, then channel strength and courage. Conventional expectations and disciplined beliefs can bring resilience in the face challenges. ![]() The Hierophant and The Hermit
The Hierophant followed by The Hermit may suggest gathering knowledge and gaining wisdom through a structured system. Formal teachers or mentors may feature, most particularly in spiritual or learning institutions. A spiritual journey may feature for some. ![]() The Hierophant and Wheel of Fortune
The Hierophant followed by The Wheel of Fortune can bring change to a traditional and structured system as life enters a new cycle. Accepting traditional guidance may help to navigate the twists and turns of fate and destiny. ![]() The Hierophant and Justice
The Hierophant leading to Justice can suggest balancing traditional values with a sense of justice to ensure ethical decisions are guided by higher principles. This combination may represent the higher structures within the legal system, courts etc. Contracts and legal documents with large organisations or formal institutions may feature for some. ![]() The Hierophant and The Hanging Man
The Hierophant followed by The Hanging Man can suggest a pause in proceedings, where an unconventional approach and some lateral thinking may need to be applied to traditional rules or a structured system. Some may view this combination as one of spiritual enlightenment. Depending upon context, on a mundane level The Hanging Man can indicate a suspended situation and delays with a large organisation or traditional institution (such as, hospital, university, government department, marriage). ![]() The Hierophant and Death
The Hierophant leading to Death can bring major change and transformation to a situation involving a large organisation or a traditional institution. Death breaks down the structured systems indicated by the Hierophant to bring closure to the matter. Depending upon context (please check for other cards to reinforce these aspects), it may show the end of a marriage, or a burial/memorial service. ![]() The Hierophant and Temperance
The Hierophant leading to Temperance can suggest patience and moderation in dealing with a structured system or traditional values to bring harmony and balance to the matter. Depending upon context, it may show hospitals and healing, or compromise to bring renewal and healing to marriage. ![]() The Hierophant and The Devil
The Hierophant followed by The Devil signifies a clash between traditional values and temptations. Adopt structured wisdom to deal with destructive tendencies or influences. The Devil can bring out the darker side of a large organisation or traditional institution, corruption, etc. ![]() The Hierophant and The Tower
The Hierophant with The Tower can signal a shake-up in traditional beliefs. There may be unexpected changes or sudden upheavals with a large organisation or an institution that operates within set systems – the Tower breaks down the structures. ![]() The Hierophant and The Star
The Hierophant with The Star may signify aligning spiritual wisdom with hope and inspiration. Embrace structured beliefs, then aspire to higher ideals. For some, mentors or teachers may provide helpful guidance that brings optimism and improvement, or bright prospects with a large establishment. ![]() The Hierophant and The Moon
The Hierophant together with The Moon can suggest veiled activity with a large establishment or traditional institution, all may not be as it seems, and it creates an element of uncertainty. For some, it may indicate spiritual mysticism, or a balance of traditional beliefs and the hidden insights of the subconscious. ![]() The Hierophant and The Sun
The Hierophant followed by The Sun brings a positive outlook and successful dealings with a large establishment or traditional institution. An improvement to vitality and well-being following a hospital visit. A happy marriage may be indicated for some. ![]() The Hierophant and Judgement
The Hierophant with Judgement may suggest a revival of traditional or spiritual values. A connection with a large establishment or institution is resurrected and brought back to life. For some, it may indicate marriage reconciliation or renewal of vows. ![]() The Hierophant and The World
The Hierophant leading to The World can represent successful completion and triumphant achievement in connection with a large organisation or institution (university, hospital, church, government department, or large company). The Hierophant and Ace of Wands: Tradition guides new passions. The Hierophant's wisdom paves the way for a burst of creative energy with the Ace of Wands. As a progression of events it suggests new work or a new venture connected to a large establishment or traditional institution.
The Hierophant and Two of Wands: Traditional wisdom (The Hierophant) meets collaborative vision (Two of Wands). A dynamic partnership that blends structure with shared exploration to initiate plans moving forward. A working partnership or collaboration with an institution or large organisation. The Hierophant and Three of Wands: Structured knowledge fuels expansive visions, paving the way for exploration and growth. Can indicate progress and the early stages of success with plans connected to an institution or large establishment. Commercial ventures or a business mentor may be relevant for some. The Hierophant and Four of Wands: Depending upon context (question, spread, and other cards present) The Hierophant together with the Four of Wands can suggest a wedding, most particularly where a church or religious building features. In other matters, the Four of Wands brings harmony and stability to structured organisations or institutions. The Hierophant and Five of Wands: The Hierophant imparts wisdom, but the Five of Wands suggests that conflicts arise. Traditional values may clash, challenging the established order. A dynamic tension can test and reshape the foundations. Petty obstacles with traditional institutions or a structured establishment. The Hierophant and Six of Wands: The Hierophant's wisdom leads to triumph. The Six of Wands heralds success, recognition, and validation. Traditional knowledge can propel you into the spotlight where you may be acknowledged for achievements and leadership. May indicate promotion with a large organisation. The Hierophant and Seven of Wands: Traditional values may face opposition, requiring resilience and courage to maintain your beliefs. You may feel defensive but are prepared to stand your ground and fight your corner in connection with an institution or structured system. The Hierophant and Eight of Wands: The Hierophant imparts wisdom and traditional values, setting the stage for rapid positive developments. For some, good news coming in swiftly from a large establishment or institution. The Hierophant and Nine of Wands: Traditional values can provide strength that allows you to persevere and protect what matters. If you’re dealing with a large establishment then it may feel like an uphill struggle, but you can persevere through the challenges. The Hierophant and Ten of Wands: The structured institutions of The Hierophant leads to burdens in the Ten of Wands. Traditional foundations or establishments may bring responsibilities that feel overwhelming, balance will be required to lighten the load. The Hierophant and Page of Wands: The Hierophant leading to the Page of Wands can suggest news and messages concerning work, particularly related to large organisations, institutions, and establishments with highly structured systems. The Hierophant and Knight of Wands: The Hierophant followed by the Knight of Wands can indicate a change of residence, possibly following marriage. In work matters connected to traditional establishments it may bring relocation or additional travel. The Hierophant and Ace of Cups: The Hierophant followed by the Ace of Cups suggests traditional values nurture new beginnings, fostering love and compassionate emotional connections. For those single it can indicate the start of a new relationship. For those attached, it represents a new beginning for love and happiness for the traditional family unit and filled with emotional abundance. For some, it can suggest the emotional new beginnings of married life. The Hierophant and Two of Cups: The Hierophant's wisdom meets unity in the Two of Cups. Traditional values blend harmoniously, forming deep connections. Relationships, guided by shared principles, flourish with emotional resonance and understanding. An indication of marriage for some. The Hierophant and Three of Cups: The Hierophant together with the Three of Cups can indicate religious gatherings and celebrations and, for some, can indicate a wedding. Celebrations are surrounded by traditional values, fostering harmonious connections and shared happiness among friends. The Hierophant and Four of Cups: The Hierophant leading to the Four of Cups can suggest feeling discontent in relation to a traditional institution or establishment. This may lead to introspection due to a sense of emotional detachment. For some, it may indicate boredom within a marriage or dissatisfaction with a traditional relationship. The Hierophant and Five of Cups: The Hierophant followed by the Five of Cups can indicate disappointments with traditional values, urging reflection on emotional losses and the potential for healing through introspection. For some, it can suggest marriage upsets, although all forms of traditional institutions or structured establishments may be relevant, depending upon context. The Hierophant and Six of Cups: The Hierophant followed by the Six of Cups may suggest people or places from the past connected to a large organisation, institution, or structured establishment. The Hierophant and Seven of Cups: The Hierophant's wisdom meets the whimsical illusions of the Seven of Cups. Traditional values face choices, navigating through diverse dreams and fantasies, and urges discernment in pursuing an authentic and realistic path. The Hierophant and Eight of Cups: The Hierophant leading to the Eight of Cups can suggest walking away from traditional values or an institution. This may lead to a soul-searching journey to seek deeper meaning and emotional fulfilment beyond established norms. The Hierophant and Nine of Cups: The Hierophant followed by the Nine of Cups may indicate a wish fulfilled connected to an establishment with structured systems or a traditional institution. Traditional values contribute to emotional fulfilment, manifesting as joy, abundance, and satisfaction in the personal or spiritual area of life. The Hierophant and Ten of Cups: The traditional values of The Hierophant creates a foundation for familial bliss. The Ten of Cups signifies emotional fulfilment and harmony, rooted in tradition and culminating in a joyous and united home and family life. An indication of marriage for some, please check surrounding cards for further clarification. The Hierophant and Page of Cups: News and messages of an emotional nature being received from a traditional establishment or large organisation. The Hierophant and Knight of Cups: The Hierophant followed by the Knight of Cups can indicate an offer, proposal, or invitation, from a large organisation or traditional institution. In the opposite order it may suggest a marriage proposal. The Hierophant and Ace of Swords: The Hierophant followed by the Ace of Swords can suggest a breakthrough in traditional values, leading to an enlightening revelation or a new intellectual understanding. Triumph over adversity and a fresh new start for a traditional relationship, or connected to a structured establishment. The Hierophant and Two of Swords: The Hierophant leading to the Two of Swords may imply a struggle with conflicting beliefs or decisions within established structures. Seek balance through thoughtful introspection before committing to a decision. For some it can suggest a situation connected to a large organisation or traditional institution may stall. The Hierophant and Three of Swords: The Hierophant followed by the Three of Swords can bring stormy emotions connected to an organisation or traditional institution. It may suggest family upheaval or upsets and challenges within marriage. The Hierophant and Four of Swords: The Hierophant leading to the Four of Swords can indicate a period of rest and recovery and, for some, hospitals or institutions may feature. Withdrawal and pulling back from established beliefs. The Hierophant and Five of Swords: The Hierophant followed by the Five of Swords suggests an element of secrecy within traditional structures. Be wary of hidden agendas, or underhanded activity within an organisation or institution, as people may not have your best interests at heart. The Hierophant and Six of Swords: The Hierophant followed by the Six of Swords can suggest moving away from difficulties and a calmer phase on the horizon following challenges within marriage, traditional style relationship, or a large establishment. The Hierophant and Seven of Swords: The Hierophant represents a large organisation or traditional institution, and the Seven of Swords suggests handling a connected situation with a good deal of care. Ensure you have your strategy lined up and follow accordingly as matters progress. The Hierophant and Eight of Swords: The Hierophant leading to the Eight of Swords can suggest feeling restricted within traditional beliefs or institutions. Seek guidance to break free from self-imposed limitations and explore new perspectives. The Hierophant and Nine of Swords: The Hierophant followed by the Nine of Swords can indicate inner turmoil within established structures or beliefs. Seek solace through spiritual guidance to alleviate worry and anxiety to find mental peace. If you work for a large organisation it may suggest career worries. The Hierophant and Ten of Swords: The Hierophant leading to the Ten of Swords can suggest a disappointing ending, or failed plans, connected to a traditional institution, organisation, or establishment. Hierophant > Ten of Swords > Justice: There are various combinations that can be relevant for divorce proceedings or a split, (Ten of Cups, for example, instead of Hierophant) but exercise care and read the progression as the order is important. The Hierophant and Page of Swords: The Hierophant followed by the Page of Swords can represent delayed or slightly disappointing news from a traditional institution or organisation. The Hierophant and Knight of Swords: The Hierophant leading to the Knight of Swords may suggest a bold and assertive approach within established beliefs or institutions. Navigate challenges decisively with determination, to uphold principles while seeking progress. Events unfolding at great speed connected to large organisations or institutions. The Hierophant and Ace of Pentacles: The Hierophant followed by the Ace of Pentacles can indicate important documentation or contracts with a financial connection, associated with a large organisation or structured establishment. It suggests a new beginning for wealth and prosperity. The Hierophant and Two of Pentacles: The Hierophant leading to the Two of Pentacles can suggest confidently maintaining a balance with a large organisation or institution. For some, it can represent dealing with multiple establishments at the same time. If you work for such, then it may indicate multi-tasking or performing multiple roles. The Hierophant and Three of Pentacles: The Hierophant followed by the Three of Pentacles suggests work connected to a structured establishment or traditional institution. This is usually your main career or vocation but indicates a good level of mastery and skill. The Hierophant and Four of Pentacles: The Hierophant leading to the Four of Pentacles can represent being prepared to work hard toward material goals in relation to a large establishment. Depending upon context, lending and saving institutions can sometimes be indicated. In marriage or traditional style relationships, it can suggest withholding, or holding back. The Hierophant and Five of Pentacles: The Hierophant followed by the Five of Pentacles can represent temporary financial loss connected to a large establishment. Can suggest a downward spiritual spiral when all faith and hope feels lost. The Hierophant and Six of Pentacles: The Hierophant followed by the Six of Pentacles can suggest financial generosity or assistance may come through structured and traditional channels, fostering stability and growth. Charitable organisations may feature for some. The Hierophant and Seven of Pentacles: The Hierophant leading to the Seven of Pentacles suggests patience and traditional wisdom cultivate material and spiritual abundance over time. Rewards for invested efforts connected to a structured establishment may feature for some. The Hierophant and Eight of Pentacles: The Hierophant followed by the Eight of Pentacles can signify dedicated learning within traditional and structured establishments. Mastery of practical skills aligns with spiritual principles, leading to success through disciplined efforts. Teaching and guidance from a wise mentor. The Hierophant and Nine of Pentacles: The Hierophant with the Nine of Pentacles may indicate traditional wisdom guides independent prosperity and self-sufficiency, creating balance between material and spiritual abundance whilst staying true to personal values. For some, it may indicate an improvement to finances in connection with a traditional establishment; larger amounts are usually represented, sufficient to allow a comfortable lifestyle. The Hierophant and Ten of Pentacles: The Hierophant followed by the Ten of Pentacles can represent traditional values leading to family prosperity. Spiritual guidance enhances generational wealth, creating stability and an enduring legacy. A structured establishment connected to the home may feature for some. The Hierophant and Page of Pentacles: The Hierophant with the Page of Pentacles suggests a teacher or mentor guiding practical endeavours, usually within a traditional institution (higher learning). Learn and apply new skills with traditional wisdom, paving the way for tangible success and growth. For some, news of a material nature from a structured establishment or financial organisation. The Hierophant and Knight of Pentacles: The Hierophant with the Knight of Pentacles suggests disciplined pursuit of practical goals guided by tradition. Methodical efforts lead to material success with a strong foundation of wisdom. A longstanding situation involving an institution finally comes to fruition. Ace of Wands > The Hierophant > Two of Swords: A new project stalls, possibly due to bureaucracy.
Four of Wands > The Hierophant > Three of Cups: Church wedding or ceremony of marriage, (also other cards that support marriage interpretation). The Hierophant > Five of Wands > Seven of Wands: Rebelling against conventions and traditional values, non-conformance. Two of Swords > The Hierophant > The Hanging Man: Taking trusted advice due to indecision may lead to a fresh perspective but no further movement until matters have been reassessed. Ten of Pentacles > The Hierophant > Ten of Wands: May feel under pressure and duty bound to do the right thing for family obligations. The Hermit > The Hierophant > The Fool: Taking advice from elders or wise teachers and then disregarding it, forging a fresh and unconventional path free from recognised structures. ![]() Learn how to link cards together to add depth and dimension to your readings through the interwoven connections. Easy Tarot Combinations also includes predictive reading techniques and over a thousand combinations from real readings. Now available from bookshops and online:
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