The Hierophant: A Tarot Card for Fiction Writers
The Hierophant represents systems and institutions in society: religious orders, academia, secret societies, fraternal orders, sororities, and governments. In stories, the Hierophant sets up the rules for what's acceptable and what's taboo in whatever organization your protagonist exists within.
What the Hierophant Means for Your Story
The Hierophant carries tradition, conformity, and morality.
The Character Who Shows Up
The Hierophant can be traditional, conventional, and a staunch upholder of belief systems. As an archetype, he's the teacher and guide: ritualistic, conforming, and structured, often a religious leader, guru, or cult leader. He may be a master in his field, mentoring others or leading a movement with real charisma. Just as easily, he might be running an MLM or Ponzi scheme, or living a monk-like life devoted entirely to his practice.
As a teacher and guide, he upholds moral standards, preserves sacred traditions, and nurtures spiritual growth in the people who look to him. Characters with this energy bring stability through teaching, promote community and unity, and serve as a wise counselor with a genuine hunger for knowledge.
On the Shadow Side
That same devotion to a system can turn dogmatic. On the shadow side, the Hierophant clings to outdated ways, grows judgmental and self-righteous, and can lean on his status to exploit the very trust he built. He may come to feel above the law entirely.
Themes to Mine
- The relevance of a tradition or belief system as circumstances outgrow it
- Conformity versus freethinking
- Breaking free from structural repression
- Disconnection from community over non-conformist beliefs
- The potential for growth once real support arrives
Plot Possibilities
The plot might revolve around adherence to established rules and structures, a significant rite of passage, or the battle against the establishment: the clash between old ways and new.
Sources of Conflict
In the story
Potential conflicts arise from strict orthodoxy, the refusal to challenge the status quo, mob mentality, the isolation of holding a position of power, misplaced faith, and the loss of community that comes with unconventional thoughts or behavior.
In relationships
The story could explore the consequences of rigidity and closed-mindedness, where hypocritical actions and the exploitation of status and power lead to dominance over others and ensuing conflict.
How does the Hierophant show up in your story?
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