THE HEIROPHANT
The Servant of the Eternal One
Taurus
“Sacred Tradition”
DESCRIPTION AND SYMBOLISM
The Hierophant or “High Priest” of the Tarot sits upon an elevated platform with both hands raised in benediction as he bestows a blessing upon two initiates who kneel before him in traditional robes. A yellow stole adorns both men whose backs are turned to us. One candidate wears robes decorated with the pomegranates of desire and fertility while the other’s robes are embroidered with the lilies of reason and pure thought. His right hand is raised in the sign of the trinity and in his left hand he holds a scepter of authority topped in a triple cross. His throne sits on an elevated dais covered in red and below it are two gold keys crossed over each other in an “X” pattern. He sits between two ornate pillars carved out of grey stone and his throne, made of the same stone, stands against a neutral gray backdrop. He is dressed in red vestments with a white scapula down his front that is adorned with three equal armed crosses. Established cultural mores, acceptance of convention and conformity to religious doctrine are symbolized by the Hierophant. Through his spiritual authority he becomes the connecting link between the religious conventions of the outer world and the sacred knowledge of the spiritual world. The Hierophant invokes an atmosphere of the necessity of developing a spiritual dimension in ones life either through the acceptance of conventional spiritual practice or the practice of an unconventional spirituality more suited to one’s unique destiny as an individual.
ASTROLOGICAL CORRESPONDENCE
Taurus represents the energy of stability and self-substantiation both in the spiritual and material sense. It exhibits a persistent, determined and practical energy and is highly goal orientated. In its fertile soil grows not only the material foundation of our life but the moral foundation as well. Here we begin to develop that which will emerge as the harvest of our unique individual existence in the world. Traditionally ruled by Venus, Taurus exhibits the most spiritual aspects of the character of this planet - aesthetic sensibility and moral awareness. The Hierophants astrological association with Taurus also symbolizes the stability that comes with conformity to established belief systems. He represents the conservative security of the status quo and the institutions that represent it.
ORACLES
When Appearing Upright in a Reading
The path that you should embrace is one of adherence to the tradition and creed of the orthodox faith. On this path you will discover a certainty of belief along with the security and stability of following an established path as well as the social approval and acceptance you need.
The orthodox viewpoint is not for you. You love new ideas and must continue to follow a path that is independent of established dogmas and traditional spiritual beliefs. Remain open to unconventional ideas and follow your inner vision. Let it lead you towards the unique spiritual accomplishments that are destined for you alone.
THE TREE OF LIFE
“The Triumphant and Eternal Intelligence”
The Triumphant and Eternal Intelligence speaks through the Inner Light and leads all who are willing to listen into the paradise of the righteous where true peace and harmony dwell. It is through forming a relationship with the Hierophant that the sacred powers of the Spirit can play their important and necessary role in your life.