The Hierophant has been established as a pillar of the community, guiding its members in matters both secular and spiritual. While historically, The Hierophant is seen as the "keeper of the keys" to unlock spiritual mysteries (not unlike The High Priestess), the lessons they teach are less internal and intuitive and more institutional (think church, religion, education, etc.), focusing on growth through knowledge and experience and strengthening our relationship with the Divine.

The Hierophant's lessons encourage us, as both adults and parents, to reflect on how we were raised—lessons not only from school or church but also from family traditions passed down through generations.

Here are some ways to embody the nature of The Hierophant, both as an individual and as a parent:

Be a Willing Teacher and Mentor

As an adult, we have advanced through life by constantly augmenting our knowledge, learning from our mistakes, and evaluating the experiences of others. This bank of knowledge is something that we selectively pass on to others, sharing not only academic knowledge, but also values, morals, and life lessons. Remember, the role of teacher or mentor is not about judgement, but sharing openly the experiences and education you've had in your life that may be helpful to others

As a parent, it is our responsibility to play a very active role in the guidance and education of our children. This is not only through interaction and correction, but by also being actively engaged in external learning, to support, augment, and re-enforce the lessons being taught through other channels. Not only does this help develop a direct relationship with your child, but it allows you to keep tabs on the things they're learning and experiencing.

Understand Tradition

As adults, we have a lifetime of experiences that have become routine simply because tradition dictates that that's just what we do. In the United States, an enormous Thanksgiving meal shared with extended family is a very common tradition that almost everyone participates in, even though if it is often chaotic and emotionally charged (and often expensive!).

While the intention of Thanksgiving is to gather as a family to be together and give thanks for the many blessings we have, it is, unfortunately, often underscored by emotional differences, stiffly held expectations, and feelings of judgement and disapproval. While the tradition of Thanksgiving is understood, feelings of expectation and stress can undermine the purpose. This leaves us to question whether participating in or being a part of the tradition is something that needs to continue. This, of course, doesn't mean you just don't celebrate Thanksgiving; perhaps you, instead, celebrate with your own immediate family or have a "Friends-giving," where friends get together to celebrate positive and healthy relationships.

The Hierophant values tradition and structure. As a parent, this could involve instilling a sense of respect for family traditions or cultural rituals. It encourages sharing traditions and teaching their history but also encourages open discussion about why we hold traditions and why they can be important to your family or culture.

Balance Authority with Compassion

If we think of the illustrative role of The Hierophant, they present as a traditional priest or member of the priesthood. They are someone who teaches and guides their congregation with authority and confidence, but they are also someone who understands that we're all imperfect humans who make mistakes and need an occasional shoulder to cry on or an ear to vent to.

As adults, we can take on these qualities when we are engaging with our friends, family, or even the people we work with. Maintaining a confident (yet humble) attitude helps others feel comfortable to approach us with questions, or feel as if they can trust us with sensitive topics. Being willing to earnestly listen and be present when someone talks with you allows you to provide your own experience and insight in a way that comes across as sincere and concerned. Empathy is a key ingredient in being a compassionate listener.

As parents, we know the importance of enforcing authority. Respect from our children is something that comes easy when kids are small, but changes to something that must be earned (seemingly on a daily basis) when kids start puberty. It's important, just as The Hierophant demonstrates, that you maintain a loving and compassionate attitude when interacting with growing children. This not only reinforces a respectful relationship but keeps the door open anytime they are having a difficult time or feeling complex feelings they don't know how to navigate.

Encourage the Exploration of Beliefs and Belief Systems

Man of us are raised in families where religion is a prominent part of the family structure. Social, Family, and Spiritual experiences are often interwoven and it becomes difficult to separate one from the other. Traditions and expectations are positioned in the forefront; it's just what you do.

Sometimes, however, life intervenes and puts circumstances in your path that aren't easily addressed by your belief system. The Hierophant helps encourage us to look at our beliefs and not only understand why we believe them but also supports us when we need to change or grow our beliefs to help us function in a healthy manner in modern society.

As a parent, we are responsible for providing a spiritual foundation for our children. If there is no religious affiliation or dogma that is shared, we should discuss personal spirituality and explain how spirituality can be expressed when they are old enough to understand those concepts. It is also important to understand that even though these humans are your children, they are still independent humans with their own feelings, lives and experiences. It is very possible at some point in their life that their spiritual practices will diverge from your own. Maintaining flexibility, an open mind, and respect is important to not only allow your children to feel confident and empowered by their spiritual choices, but also maintaining a close and connected parent/child relationship.

Teach Respect for Boundaries

The Hierophant's role is important to teach the rules of living in society. Understanding rules of engagement, local laws, and expectations for contributing to society in a healthy way form our basic understanding of social boundaries.

Boundaries are critical for living a healthy life. These start when we're kids in understanding personal space and what is and is not ok to do to others. These boundaries continue to evolve, and the more aware we are of ourselves and in tune with our sense of self, the better we will be at establishing boundaries that are in alignment with our personal and spiritual beliefs. That can be important in finding success in employment, romantic relationships, and even familial relationships. It can even be helpful in establishing personal boundaries for maintaining healthy relationships with food, sex, alcohol, and recreational drug use.

As parents, we can begin teaching boundaries by maintaining clearly communicated expectations. Teaching children about boundaries at an early age creates an understanding that they can define what is ok and what is not ok for them. It's also helpful to explain that there are important boundaries in the parent/child relationship, where respect and open communication are key aspects of maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships.

Nurture Community and Connection

Another important aspect of The Hierophant is that they are creatures of social devotion. They are meant to guide and instruct, not sit alone in solitude. This is a great reminder for us, as adults, to be socially active and present whenever we are with other people.

For example, if you go to a restaurant and look around at all the people, how many people are on their phones? Our addiction to our devices can cause an uncomfortable disconnect that no one is really willing to address. It distracts us from what is in front of us and, quite frankly, is rude when you are splitting your attention between your party and phone.

As a parent, this is a great lesson to teach your children. There is a time and place for looking at your phone, and digital communication should, ideally, not take the place of real, in-person connections.

Questions to Ask Yourself that Reflect The Hierophant

Here are a few questions for self-reflection when you draw The Hierophant in your daily or situational practice:

1. What beliefs or lessons from your upbringing do you still carry with you, and how do they shape your actions and decisions today?
2. How do you approach your role as a mentor or guide in your professional life?
3. What traditions or routines do you follow at work or in your personal life, and are they still serving a positive purpose?
4. How do you balance authority with empathy in your relationships?
5. What role does humility play in your personal and professional life?
6. What are some examples of boundaries you've set? At work? In your personal life? With your family?
7. In what ways are you encouraging yourself to explore and expand your beliefs?

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