The Hierophant & Death
The Hierophant & Death
Analysis:
One of the most striking connections is the fact that there is a pope or hierophant figure visible in Death, greeting the rider.
There are crosses in each scene depicted in multiple ways. In Death, we see crossed bones on the horse's harness as well as crosses on the pope's gloves. In The Hierophant, there are crosses down the centre of The Hierophant, on the shoes, on the red floor below, and in the crossed keys.
Flowers are depicted in both scenes. In The Hierophant, we see roses and lilies on the two kneelers while in Death, we see a white rose on the black flag.
Pillars are visible in each scene. The Hierophant sits between two pillars while the sun rises between two towers in Death.
There are crowns in both scenes. The Hierophant is wearing one, as is the pope and as well, there is a fallen crown by the horse's foot in Death.
Both Death and The Hierophant are holding something symbolic. The Hierophant holds their triple staff while Death holds the flag.
In both scenes we see 2 secondary figures kneeling or bowing before the main figure.
Both cards are attributed to fixed signs of the zodiac which are opposite one another; Taurus and Scorpio.
A black and white pattern is shown in each image. In The Hierophant, we see a checkerboard by their feet. In Death, we see black and white elements i.e. horse and rider & flag, and rose.
What do YOU see???
Possible Interpretation:
We say we want freedom, but we’re so resistant to giving up our structures, forms, authority figures and routines. Liberation sounds good in theory, but often terrifying in practice. When the old familiar falls away, what do we have to replace it with? It’s easy to feel strong and secure when you have the backing of systems that have long been in place. Traditions, while stifling, can also give us a sense of belonging and the comfort of knowing what to expect and when to expect it. I often think of these polarities as being akin to “the devil you know vs. the devil you don’t”. Freedom isn’t simply “getting to do what you want, when you want, without consequence”. True freedom is one of the greatest responsibilities of all because it means your choices are now yours and yours alone (not someone or something else that made the rules for you). While uncomfortable, this transition is also incredibly transforming.