The High Priestess represents the most intimate, mysterious, and hidden part of the human being. This card is associated with the number 2 , which represents Yin, the feminine principle of receptivity, the meeting or union between two parts. The key words of this card are adaptability, kindness, prudence, and diplomacy.
The High Priestess is our deepest self, our inner life. The Magician would be the external or outward part, how we communicate and relate to our environment. However, the High Priestess symbolizes the relationship or communication with our inner self, with oneself.
This archetype is wise, experienced, intuitive, sensitive and prudent. The predominant color is blue, inspiring spirituality, peace, serenity and confidence. The High Priestess card invites us to adopt an attitude of silence, internal analysis, and meditation to connect with our inner life. It is the reflection of the feminine energy of our spirit that invites us to see what is hidden in us or in situations.
In both the Marseille Tarot and the Rider Tarot, we can see a veil and two columns: Boaz and Jakin, the two pillars that were in the portico of the Temple of Jerusalem. The veil reminds us that the knowledge we can acquire in the earthly world is limited, not all knowledge is possible. Study and connection with oneself are necessary to try to discover what is behind the veil (if it is possible). The columns also reinforce the idea of the limitation of knowledge and this as something reserved for the divine.
The book she holds in her hands symbolizes the wisdom of the archetype. In the case of the Rider Tarot, the High Priestess wears the cap of Isis, one of the best-known goddesses of ancient Egypt. This cap with a crescent, full and waning moon symbolizes the plenitude of the inner world.
The High Priestess reveals mystery, the hidden, and the truth in moments of peace and solitude. Thanks to her experience and intuition, she is endowed with great wisdom, so make use of it. This card invites you to ask yourself how you connect with your intuition, what information you lack about the fact you are asking about, and encourages you to search and go deeper. It is in this card where the questions and concerns of our being are developed.
How to work with the High Priestess card?
The journey through the Tarot arcana is a journey of inner knowledge, an adventure and a path to oneself. Below we propose some exercises to internalize each card. It is important that you do not do them all at once. Dedicate the time you need to each arcana and do it when you feel like it. Respect and follow your inner time.
- If you were thinking about studying something or supplementing your knowledge, the High Priestess invites you to do so. It is time to develop your wisdom.
- Do activities that allow you to connect with your inner self. For example, meditation.
- Listen, follow and trust your intuition. There is great knowledge within you.