The High Priestess

This Tarot card might be the most alluring and enigmatic card of the entire deck. Even at first glance, a Tarot novice can perceive its depth and mystery. For seasoned readers, it becomes a common personal significator. But, admittedly, even experienced readers might well find themselves stumped when the High Priestess appears in a reading. That is understandable, given the complexity of this card. The lessons of the High Priestess are knowledge, wisdom, and intuition; but also balance, perspective, and discernment.

The High Priestess card is rife with symbolism and hidden meaning. Do you notice the pomegranates in the background behind her? Pomegranates denote the afterlife and underworld – with which the High Priestess has connections. The clear blue background is not just contrast or aesthetic, as it represents the heavens and divinity, also with which the High Priestess communicates. She sits between a black and white pillar, symbolizing the darkness and the light in existence, the dualities of life, yin and yang, etc. etc. In her hand, she holds a scroll. Look closely, and you will see the word “Tora” written on the scroll – the Tora is a spiritual text, the “Book of the Law.” The High Priestess herself represents the balancing act of spiritual growth. She sits tranquilly between the extremities of the human experience, confident in the knowledge, wisdom, and insight she has mastered. Moreover, she is tranquil and assured because she knows answers will come to her if she seeks them.

The High Priestess is traditionally associated with the moon in astrology. Astrologically, the moon governs our subconscious, our emotions, our intuitive selves, our “souls” if you will. The moon also symbolizes the divine feminine energy. The High Priestess wears a triple moon crown, symbol of the Maiden-Mother-Crone goddess triad. A large crescent moon shines at the High Priestess’s feet, emphasizing her divine feminine power. The moon is an apt correspondence for The High Priestess – just as the astrological moon governs our inner selves, The High Priestess asks us to open our inner eye.

When the High Priestess appears in a reading, we may see some superficial themes:

• querent needs to remain balanced, open-minded in the situation
• a need to gather more information, or wait for more information
• the querent needs to do some soul-searching; get in touch with their intuition
• secrets/hidden information will be revealed

More in-depth interpretations include:

• the need to apply intuition/psychic senses to reasoning or decision-making
• expression of creative forces
• enhancing psychic abilities/spiritual connection
• indicates good luck in finances, business
• fate; sudden insight

When the High Priestess of the Tarot calls on you in a reading, pay utmost attention. Be alert, aware, and attentive to whatever she has to tell you. Remember that you have much to learn, and patiently wait to be taught. Do not look only at the surface of this enigmatic card – the High Priestess asks you to look deep within and balance your intelligence with your intuition. She wants you to seek knowledge and develop the discernment to obtain wisdom and spiritual growth. She asks you to balance this earthly life with your soul’s journey.