The Hierophant

Is it spiritual salvation, or a shackle of thought?

The cross in the shape of the character “丰” (abundance) is the Hierophant’s Cross, symbolizing the seat of the Hierophant and echoing the cross held by the Hierophant in the original Rider-Waite deck.

Wings unfold behind the cross—what the followers see. But are the wings truly there, or merely a projection of their faith?

The Y-shaped rope mirrors the straps worn by the followers in the original image. Interestingly, a yoke—a tool fitted on the necks of oxen during plowing—is also this shape. Does this imply the Hierophant's control over the spiritual minds of others? But is it truly the Hierophant who controls you? Could it be that the shackle was placed on you by worldly expectations—and that you’re simply seeking a sliver of spiritual comfort amid the weight of material life?

The two keys on the cross: one opens the gates of heaven to the repentant sinner, while the other shuts the gate to the unrepentant.

Corresponding Zodiac:: Taurus (Second house of the zodiac / stability, practicality, and material foundation)

UPRIGHT

Meaning: religion, teacher, education, trustworthy, respect for others, knowledge, tradition, conservatism, authority, elder figure, preaching, monk-like personality, steadiness, endurance, rule-following, sociability, being relied upon and respected, help from a mentor

REVERSED

Meaning: loss of trust, meddling, isolation, breaking tradition, questioning authority, rule-breaking, pursuit of freedom, stubbornness, dissatisfaction with the status quo, seeking new possibilities, suffering from carelessness, aversion to study, misinformation, interfering with others, burdensome good intentions, self-righteousness, nonconformity, pursuit of personal freedom

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