We are in the sun sign of Taurus (April 20/21 – May 20/21).  This sign is represented by The Hierophant in the Tarot (Major Arcana, #5)*. The time of the Hierophant is a period of higher-understanding and group development. It’s no wonder May is a popular month for educational promotions and graduations.

Every teacher should remember that being the best educator also requires being the best student one can be.  No matter how full our knowledge-base, there is always room for more.  Just as an artist must experience the art of others, or writers must experience other’s words for inspiration, the teacher must experience learning from others. One should never stop questioning the constant unfolding of the Universe.

The Hierophant is also associating with an organization for a common cause (i.e. in school, the common cause is higher education). It can be a time to commit to a group or goal with the intent of gaining more knowledge and even changing the world around you.

The Hierophant
Education

  • Education, teaching, learning
  • Conformity, following rules, fitting in
  • Organization, committed to a cause, group identity

The Hierophant indicates the presence of education and learning; a sharing of knowledge and a passing of wisdom.  There is a sense of balance and conformity with a willingness to expand your horizons or broaden your views when faced with reason and rationality.  The Hierophant has faith and speaks the truth in the face of adversity. If you’re represented by the Hierophant, you will usually follow established structures and traditions while attempting to put your own quiet, personal touch on things; you might be “safely rebellious”. You might even find yourself pushing back against the norms of your chosen profession.

Under negative aspects, Taurus/The Hierophant can be in conflict with authority figures, have a “know-it-all” attitude and become so inflexible and seemingly prejudice as to alienate those who could learn from him. You are reminded that everything is a learning experience and knowledge should always be shared.

Famous Taurus: Queen Elizabeth II, William Shakespeare, Renee Zellweger, Al Pacino, Orson Wells, Fred Astaire, George Lucas, Dennis Hopper, Malcolm X

*Note: Excerpt from “Personalities of the Tarot {A Guide to Know Thyself through Astrology and Tarot}” by Elizabeth Seer. There are differing schools of thought re: astro/tarot interpretation. My personal use of Tarot and astrological correspondence is information which resonates with me, learned over years of study.