The Hierophant
Major Arcana · number 5 · Il Papa
Upright
The Hierophant speaks of binding ties: a marriage, an alliance, a contract, a tradition asking for your loyalty. It can be a blessing, the goodness of someone who guides you, or a chain that holds you still: it depends on how much you chose that bond yourself. Waite also places inspiration in this card: an idea, a calling, a word that reaches you from outside and gives you direction. If these days you are looking for advice, this card points to the right person to turn to, someone with more experience than you. The practical advice: before taking on a formal commitment, in love or in business, ask yourself whether you want it or you are doing it so as not to disappoint someone.
Source: Arthur Edward Waite, The Pictorial Key to the Tarot (1910) · read the original passage
Reversed
Reversed, the Hierophant steps down from the throne and mingles with people: concord, good understanding, the pleasure of company. It is a card that favours friendships and groups, but with a warning: too much kindness turns into weakness. If you notice you always say yes, cannot contradict anyone, let others decide for you, it is no accident. At work you risk being loaded with tasks that are not yours; in love, disappearing behind the other person’s wishes. The practical advice: this week, practise saying one polite but firm no. Then notice how much lighter you feel.