II The High Priestess

II - THE HIGH PRIESTESS

Upright Meaning: Inner illumination, higher power, feelings, expressing emotions, enlightenment, intuition, mysteries, dreams, deep emotions, harbouring secrets.

Represents: A hidden influence being exposed.

Reversed: The Moon. Femininity, emotions, the subconscious, moods, reflection.

Ages: Eight to eleven. Expressing emotions, feelings, harbouring secrets.

TL;DR: Up: Intuition Down: Subconscious

Today we move on to number 2 of the Major Arcana and the second guide on the journey; the High Priestess.

The High Priestess is often said to represent Persephone, daughter of Zeus and Demeter (Goddess of the Harvest), who becomes Queen of the Underworld. She also represents hidden influences, inner illumination, enlightenment, and intuition. This is one of my favourite cards because it is so dreamy and filled with the energy of the moon, the High Priestess is all about the mysterious and mystical.

She is positioned between two pillars and holds a book in her lap. Many believe that between the pillars is the entrance to the subconscious and The High Priestess is the gate keeper. She is knowlegible, and provides balance between two choices. She wants you to reflect on yourself before making your decision, and rely on your intuition rather than reason when coming to a decision. What does your gut tell you? If you have a strong feeling one way or the other, even if it seems impractical, let your instinct guide you.

The planet associated with the High Priestess is obviously the moon! The moon is ruled by the water element, and represents emotions, femininity, the subconscious, and self reflection.   The High Priestess and the Moon are both telling you to do some self reflection, so when you pull this card you better listen! Check in with yourself emotionally and pay attention to your dreams. Follow your heart, trust your intuition.