#5: The Hierophant
The Hierophant represents tradition, wisdom, and the structures that shape our beliefs. Often associated with institutions, teachings, and spiritual guidance, this card speaks to learning, mentorship, and finding meaning through shared knowledge. In queer spaces, The Hierophant challenges us to engage with tradition on our own terms—honoring wisdom while questioning outdated systems. It reminds us that belonging and self-discovery don’t have to be at odds; you can forge your own path while still embracing connection.
UPRIGHT
Tradition, spiritual guidance, learning and mentorship, structure, community, seeking wisdom
REVERSED
Questioning tradition, rebellion, breaking free from conformity, corrupt institutions, personal beliefs over external teachings
The Hierophant Overview
The Hierophant is the bridge between the spiritual and the structured, representing knowledge passed down through generations. He is the teacher, the mentor, the guide who offers insight through established wisdom. But not all traditions serve everyone equally—sometimes, breaking away from convention is just as important as learning from it.
If The Hierophant appears in your reading, you may be seeking deeper meaning in your life, whether through study, mentorship, or community. This card asks: What do you believe, and why? Are you following a path because it resonates with you, or because it was given to you? The Hierophant encourages both respect for tradition and the courage to carve your own way forward.
Symbolism and Imagery
The Twin Pillars – Represent structure, stability, and the balance between tradition and personal insight.
The Three-Tiered Crown – Symbolizes the unity of body, mind, and spirit, as well as leadership over different realms of understanding.
The Staff with Three Crosses – A symbol of sacred authority and divine guidance.
The Two Followers Kneeling Before Him – Represent initiation, learning, and the passing down of wisdom.
The Hand Raised in Blessing – Signifies teaching, guidance, and the transmission of sacred knowledge.
The Keys at His Feet – Represent hidden knowledge and the unlocking of deeper truths.
Upright Meaning
Upright, The Hierophant signifies learning, tradition, and seeking guidance. You may be entering a period of spiritual growth, mentorship, or structured education. This is a time to absorb wisdom from those who came before while discerning what truly resonates with your own beliefs.
In a reading, ask yourself: What traditions serve me, and which ones feel restrictive? Am I seeking guidance from the right sources? What lessons can I learn from history and community?
Reversed Meaning
Reversed, The Hierophant suggests a need to question authority and challenge the status quo. You may be feeling confined by outdated beliefs, institutions, or expectations that no longer serve you. This is a time for self-inquiry—breaking free from rules that limit your authenticity while still honoring the wisdom that holds value.
In a reading, ask yourself: Am I following this path out of obligation, or because it aligns with me? Where am I being called to challenge tradition? How can I balance freedom with structure?
Final Thoughts
The Hierophant reminds you that wisdom is meant to be a guide, not a cage. Whether you are embracing tradition, questioning authority, or seeking new mentors, this card invites you to explore what truly resonates with your spirit. Knowledge is power—but the most powerful wisdom is the one you claim as your own.
#5: The Hierophant
Queer and Transgender Meaning
The Hierophant is the bridge between tradition and transformation, the wisdom of the past and the evolution of the future. It asks you to reclaim what is sacred, question what no longer serves you, and build your own rituals of identity. This card reminds you that while tradition can be a foundation, only you decide what is meaningful for your journey.
UPRIGHT
Knowledge, tradition, mentorship, sacred wisdom, community, spiritual guidance
REVERSED
Rejection of harmful norms, breaking free, challenging authority, redefining belief systems
The Hierophant and the Trans Experience
The Hierophant represents systems of knowledge and tradition, both the ones that shaped you and the ones you must break free from. For many trans people, this card can symbolize the expectations, norms, and beliefs that were handed down—ideas about gender, family, and identity that may not have ever fit you.
This card is not just about rejecting the past, but about reclaiming what is sacred. Many trans people struggle with faith, tradition, and community because these structures have often been used against them. But The Hierophant asks: What if these spaces were always meant for you? What if you could rewrite what they mean?
It also reminds us of the power of mentorship, guidance, and queer elders. This is the card of chosen family, of seeking wisdom from those who have walked the path before you. It is about learning from history—not to conform, but to grow.
The Hierophant asks: What beliefs about gender were given to you? Which ones still serve you? Which ones do you need to release?
Symbolism and Imagery
The Hierophant’s imagery reflects tradition, wisdom, and spiritual evolution.
A figure seated between two pillars – Like The High Priestess, The Hierophant exists in the space between worlds—between what was and what could be.
Two followers kneeling before them – Learning, listening, seeking wisdom. This can represent the journey of finding community or a mentor in transition.
A triple-tiered crown and staff – The connection between mind, body, and spirit. Identity is not just one thing; it is a holistic experience.
Sacred hand gestures – A symbol of knowledge being passed down, of guidance and learning.
Upright Meaning: Learning, Growth, and Community
When The Hierophant appears upright, it is a sign to seek wisdom, honor tradition (on your own terms), and find strength in community.
For trans people, this might mean:
Finding queer and trans elders – Seeking guidance from those who have walked this path before.
Reclaiming faith and spirituality – Reconnecting with traditions that affirm rather than erase you.
Understanding gender history – Learning from the trans people who came before, honoring the legacy of resistance and joy.
Building your own rituals – Whether that’s a name change ceremony, a moment of reflection, or something sacred to you.
This card reminds you that you are not alone. There is wisdom in the past, but the future is yours to shape.
Reversed Meaning: Breaking Free From Harmful Systems
When The Hierophant appears reversed, it is a sign that you are rejecting outdated beliefs that no longer serve you.
For trans people, this can look like:
Letting go of rigid gender norms – Freeing yourself from expectations that do not align with your truth.
Leaving behind harmful communities – If faith, family, or tradition have been used to hurt you, this card may indicate a need to walk away.
Challenging authority – Questioning the systems that gatekeep transition, healthcare, or identity.
This card is about unlearning and reimagining. You do not have to accept a system that was not built for you.
Final Thoughts
The Hierophant is the balance between honoring the past and shaping the future. It reminds you that you are part of something bigger—a lineage of trans people who have always existed, always fought, always thrived.
This card says: You are sacred. Find your own path, and walk it boldly.