The Hierophant & 2 of Swords
The Hierophant & 2 of Swords
Analysis:
Both cards feature a central figure seated on a stone bench/throne, looking straight on. Even their feet are pointed similarly.
Both central figures have a white robe/dress (The Hierophant’s is underneath the red robe)
Vav (ו), the Hebrew letter associated with The Hierophant, is also linked to the element of Air, which rules the 2 of Swords.
We see elements crossed in each scene. In The Hierophant, there are two crossed keys on the ground. In the 2 of Swords, the figure has their arms crossed as they hold 2 swords.
Both cards are ruled by Venus to some extent; The 2 of Swords is associated with the first decan of Libra, while The Hierophant corresponds with the sign of Taurus. The first decan of Libra is ruled by the Moon, which is not only depicted on the 2 of Swords, but is also exalted in the sign of Taurus.
The Hierophant is often associated with the inner voice and the sense of hearing, while the 2 of Swords seems to depict the aspirant "cutting away" external distractions (or illusions), perhaps in order to hear this voice and connect with the greater aspect of herself that is speaking through it.
The number 2 is depicted prominently in The Hierophant — two keys, two monks, two pillars — and the concept of balance/the Middle Path, also associated with the sign of Libra, seems to play a central role in both cards.
The Path of Vav (ו) joins the second sphere of Chokmah (Wisdom) to the fourth sphere of Chesed (Mercy) — both qualities that may be cultivated through inner work, and consequently, also qualities that one hopes to find in a spiritual teacher/initiator!
What do YOU see???
Possible Interpretation:
There is a feeling of reverence depicted in each of these scenes. In The Hierophant, we have a respected religious authority figure, greeting and blessing the two followers. In the 2 of Swords, we see a stoic individual, balancing two heavy objects, taking this task quite seriously. Whether taken individually or together, we sense there is some kind of initiation taking place in these cards. With The Hierophant, we have the external (or exoteric) view, with two individuals being imitated into a physical church. In the 2 of Swords we sense something similar happening, yet on an inner level. Here a similar initiation is taking place, but it’s happening internally, in an esoteric way. Perhaps this is to say that while both paths may be valid ones, we don’t need to rely on external figures or structures to show us “the way”. The aspirant who understands the hierophant also lives within, may be permitted entry through “the gates” if they use their faculties wisely. When you pull these cards in tandem, it may be time to quiet the mind, shut out the noise, go within, and learn how to truly listen.