Major Arcana |
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| Rank | 2 |
| Roman Numeral | II |
Description of The High Priestess
The High Priestess card depicts a beautiful young woman wearing a horned diadem with a crystal globe set in it's center. She has the crescent Moon at her feet and a large solar cross lies about her chest. She holds a scroll inscribed with the word Tora on it.
The High Priestess sits between two pillars: one white and the other black. The left pillar has the letter 'B' inscribed and the right pillar has the letter 'J' . Behind her, a veil decorated with palms and pomegranates, is hung to obscure the view of the unworthy. She wears long flowing robes and a mantle suggesting divine light.
Symbolism & Interperetation for The High Priestess
Exoteric Symbolism of The High Priestess
The High Priestess is the symbol of Isis; Isis is symbolic for the Mercy Seat spoken of in Exodus; the Mercy Seat spoken of in Exodus is symbolic of the pineal gland in the human brain. Just as the Blessed Holy One spoke with Moses from the Mercy Seat atop the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord of Hosts Enthroned on the Cherubim, the Shekinah speaks with man through the pineal gland when it's nature and condition are proper for conversation with the Blessed Holy One, the conditions of which are outlined in the Pentateuch. Attaining this state is called The Holy Spirit. It was, and is, the source of all inspiration and prophecy spoken of in the Bible.
In The High Priestess, the Temple in which the two pillars reside in represent the human body as well as it's biblical correspondences: Solomon's Temple, and the Tabernacle in the Wilderness. They also symbolize the two Angels that test us, Boaz and Joaquin (pronounced ho-ah-keen).
Esoteric Interperitation of The High Priestess
Upright
Upright Keywords for The High Priestess
Intuition, Wisdom, Inner Guidance, Enlightenment
Upright Meaning of The High Priestess
In the upright position, The High Priestess card signifies the potential in our lives for very strong possibilities that have gone unrealized. It says that you should trust your intuition and inner wisdom. It's a time for introspection and exploring your subconscious mind. Pay attention to your dreams and the mysteries of life. This card often represents a strong connection to the spiritual realm. If action is not taken, true potential will will not be realized. A self-imposed period of passive withdrawal from the world will enrich you greatly.
Reversed
Reversed Keywords for The High Priestess
False Impressions, Foolishness, Inner Conflict, Spiritual Blindness
Reversed Meaning of The High Priestess
In the reversed position, The High Priestess signifies passiveness at the wrong time or for an extended duration, leading to weakness, fear of life and other people. It shows a person who cannot transition from thought to action or someone who has built up a wall to prevent others from getting too close. The impact of The High Priestess is dependent on the other cards in the reading, but generally The High Priestess in a reading may indicate hidden agendas or secrets that are being kept from you. You might be feeling disconnected from your intuition or struggling to access your inner wisdom. It's essential to be cautious and avoid making hasty decisions when The High Priestess appears reversed. You will likely benefit from a turn away from self-isolation to become more engaged with life and with other people.