In the beginning, there was the Fool; and the Major Arcana plays out the rest of his tale. “The Fool’s Journey” is a fascinating and important concept for both beginners and tarot pros alike. Come along with me as I revisit this journey through 22 cards from 22 different decks.
The Hierophant: A Study in Traditional Knowledge
After the Fool leaves the home he rediscovers in the Mother and the Father, he finds a new teacher in the Hierophant. Much like the High Priestess, the Hierophant has much wisdom to share with the Fool—but she draws wisdom from within, while he draws wisdom from externally established knowledge structures and dogma. Through him, the Fool learns about the different belief systems and cultural norms that exist in the world. He learns to identify with certain beliefs and practices, and discovers a sense of belonging through conforming to these traditions, moral standards, and values.
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The Hierophant in Yuelyk‘s Arcana Majora stands tall as a shining beacon of wisdom. Like the Hierophant in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot, her golden crown signifies her authority. Unlike her RWS counterpart, she does not carry a papal cross (the ultimate symbol of authority in the Roman Catholic Church) in her left hand. Instead, she holds a large book — a more universal symbol of knowledge that is not necessarily restricted to organized religion. The straight lines of her stylized robes reflect the strict, almost-rigid structure of the system of beliefs and values that she stands for. The two triangles, one pointing down and one pointing up, make me think she is transmitting higher knowledge down to those willing to learn under her guidance.
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What do you think of when you see Hierophant? Does this card resonate with your own journey at the moment? Feel free to share your thoughts in a comment below!
Originally posted on Instagram.