The Tarot card “The Priestess” is believed to be the messenger of the moon. She is devout, silent, yet incredibly alert and wise, symbolizing both wisdom and intuition. In contrast to the Magician’s passion and action, the High Priestess is depicted as silently praying while holding a scroll in her hands, resembling the concept of yin and yang in traditional Chinese culture.
From the image, we can see the High Priestess seated on a stone throne, with a scroll in her hands bearing the word “Tora,” representing her inner knowledge and insight. The pillars beside her, one black and one white, signify her strong belief in duality, clear distinctions between good and evil, and also allude to mysterious magic. She patiently waits for the opportune moment to act and receives clear guidance. Her white headdress and white flowing gown symbolize her purity and reverence for cleanliness. The green foliage and fruits behind her represent her feminine qualities, compassion, serenity, and also hint at her powerful intuition and discernment. The pomegranate suggests the mythological story of Persephone, who consumed pomegranate seeds and remained bound to her marriage. The crescent moon on her gown is also a symbol of wisdom and intuition.
If the Magician exudes masculine energy, the High Priestess represents the feminine aspect, showcasing serenity within stillness and wisdom within few words. Some say the High Priestess embodies inner contradictions, much like her position between two contrasting pillars, silently contemplating amidst the ebb and flow of black and white, day and night, justice and evil, contemplating the meaning of existence and experiencing the vicissitudes of life. Perhaps this is what makes her wise and insightful.
