The Hierophant Tarot Card Meaning (Card 5)

Tarot, like astrology, has long been one of our favorite divination systems. Interpreting either takes practice. As you learn, we wanted to help you to quickly connect to the cards and use them in ways that are actionable and practical in every area of life. xoxo, Tali & Ophira

Co-authored by James Kerti

What does The Hierophant tarot card mean?

When The Hierophant tarot card pops up in your reading, your best course of action is to take a conventional approach to the situation. While there’s a time and place for charting your own course, this isn’t it.

This major arcana card is about understanding that there’s value in pre-existing thought, beliefs, and systems.

The Hierophant tarot card:

• evokes a deep connection with spirituality, religion, and traditional values. The latter meaning is especially significant; if you’ve pulled this card, it’s telling you not to rock the boat.
• Depending on the deck, The Hierophant may be referred to as The High Priest, The Pope, or The Teacher.
• This major arcana card is the masculine analogue to The High Priestess.

What is The Hierophant zodiac sign?

The zodiac sign of The Hierophant is Taurus

The Hierophant Tarot Guide

Keywords for The Hierophant: Spirituality, tradition, conformity, institutions

Yes or No: It depends—think of it as a “maybe.”

Planet of The Hierophant: Venus

Element of The Hierophant: Earth

What does The Hierophant card mean in a love reading?

The Hierophant is the major arcana card that symbolizes commitment. It carries a strong association with marriage, as well as the importance of bringing traditional (religious or otherwise) values to your relationships.

The Hierophant values integrity, customs and clear agreements. This card’s appearance may signal a need for you to clarify the nature of a certain relationship. Even if the status you land on is FWB or “open marriage,” the point is that you are on the same page, without question.

If you’re already in a relationship, The Hierophant may tell you that there’s more commitment around the corner for the two of you. If you’re unclear about what’s next, find a time to initiate a pragmatic discussion about the future.

If you’re single, this card signals a new relationship in the near future that emphasizes a shared set of values and beliefs.

What does The Hierophant tarot card mean for career, money and finance?

On the subject of career and finances, The Hierophant reminds you of the importance of adhering to traditional structures and values. Strategic planning, wise money management and a focus on profitability are called for now.

The Hierophant tells you that it’s time to play it safe. Be cautious and, for now, take a conventional approach to your work and financial situation. It also encourages you to get back in tune with existing structures in your workplace. Before you can bend the rules, make sure you know them inside and out.

This isn’t the time to challenge authority or the existing hierarchy. The best way to solve problems is by working within the system.

What does The Hierophant tarot card mean for health?

When The Hierophant appears in this context, it’s wise to seek established medical convention and advice for any physical symptoms. 

If you’re experiencing a health challenge, avoid going down the WebMD or Google rabbit holes. Instead seek guidance from a qualified medical professional. Whether you work with a naturopath, functional medicine doctor or Western MD, you may need to run tests to diagnose the situation at hand.

If you are in emotional distress, The Hierophant speaks to the value of turning to religion or another spiritual system to restore your faith. Having a belief system—and perhaps a spiritual community—as an anchor can provide additional support as you move through a hard time.

The Hierophant Tarot Card in Reverse Meaning

When The Hierophant appears in a reading in a reversed position, you may need to turn away from traditional structure and systems (at least for the moment) to deal with your situation or question.

In a reversed position, this major arcana card advises you to seek new sources of spiritual wisdom—or to question the ones you’ve taken at face value. If you’ve been feeling stuck or limited by a conventional structure, The Hierophant validates those feelings. Explore a new path that feels more in alignment with what you need, or just step back and take a break from anything that feels like dogma.

That can be especially true when it comes up reversed in a love or career reading. If you’re feeling like the situation you’re in just isn’t working for you in its configuration, the Hierophant lets you know that it’s okay for you to turn in a more innovative direction instead of following the rules without question.

Is The Hierophant tarot card a yes or no?

Unlike many other cards, The Hierophant doesn’t carry its own clear yes or no answer. In this case, you’re being advised to consult someone you trust for guidance.

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Feature art by Diana Hlevnjak