The Hierophant sits between twin pillars, much like the High Priestess does. In the Kabalah, the pillars are from the tree of life, one representing Mercy and one Severity. One is law, one is free will. Both, however, are necessary, because man must make choices as to whether he will obey or defy. A pair of keys lies crossed at the Hierophant's feet, symbolizing currents of solar and lunar energy.

Two priests kneel before him, one wearing the roses of desire and the other the white lilies of logical reason.

In some Tarot decks the Hierophant appears as the Pope, because he symbolizes the ruling power of religion and faith, the orthodox teachings that are palatable to the masses. This is in contrast to the High Priestess, who teaches secretly and only to those who are initiated into her mysteries.

When a Hierophant card comes up in a Tarot reading, look for some indicator of a preference for ritual and ceremony. In part, this can be interpreted as a need for approval from others, even from society as a whole. The Hierophant indicates the importance of conformity, order and structure.

A reversed Hierophant shows someone who's open to new ideas and willing to think outside the box. This is the card of the non-conformist -- the rebel, the hippie, the artist who colors outside the lines. When reversed, the Hierophant indicates that it's time to do some unconventional thinking.