This is a card of…

Doctrine

Education

Norms

Manners

Orthodoxy

“A dying culture invariably exhibits personal rudeness. Bad manners. Lack of consideration for others in minor matters. A loss of politeness, of gentle manners, is more significant than is a riot..”

-Robert A. Heinlein

The Emperor represented the imposition of discipline and authority on unruly nature. The Heirophant represents socialization and enculturation: particularly as they pertain to formal education, etiquette, and religious instruction.

He believes in an orthodox traditional way of doing things and presides over all ceremonies of initiation into the fold of a club, society or culture. This is especially true of coming-of-age passages that announce the individual as responsible for themselves; such as confirmations, bar-mitzvahs, and graduations. When he shows up it’s time to focus on the customary orthodox steps taken to attain wisdom and skill, and to make sure the credentials we attain will be recognized by our culture. The Hierophant favors accredited institutions.

This is usually the first card of the majors to depict more than one figure. The conventions that help human beings to live in groups, such as manners and division of responsibilities, are also the realm of this card. The Hierophant can be a reminder that norms are important because they help to nurture and preserve a peaceful society, not because all traditions should go unquestioned.

This card wants you to think about the niceties and traditions that keep groups working and living together peaceably. It wants you to consider that others may have learned different rules.

It can also be a reminder that our education might seem non-sensical at times (think of the algebra student groaning ‘when am I ever going to need this? I want to be a writer!’) but the education is a purpose onto itself. Respect the experience of instructors and the demands of their orthodoxy. Worst-case all you learned was some self-discipline and patience.

Advice:

Learn the rudiments before you start improvising.

Understand the rules of your tribe.

Consider how many of your judgments and attitudes were learned by rote.

Warning:

Check credentials.

Mind your manners.

Do your homework.