V The High Priest (Sage)

[vaneramos]

It's interesting that I randomly drew the card in direct sequence after the one a few days ago, as if they are trying to tell me there is sometimes a pattern to the universe.

My impression: the High Priest stands between two columns suggesting foundation, structure and order. One is in shadow, the other in light, suggesting there are two sides to these principles. They are not good in themselves, only to the extent that they support the welfare of all. The priest gives me an impression of a wise, middle-aged man who is yet vigorous. His blue robes signify inspiration and intellect. Their ornamentation suggests wealth and materialism. The cross emphasizes his role as a spiritual leader. His gaze suggests perception and intuition. He is direct, perhaps confrontational. However, his left hand is hidden, indicating discretion and subtlety. The sage, a familiar herb [Edit: I've been growing it from seed since childhood], encircles him, suggesting his qualities are valuable in the right context. It is a vigorous, pleasant and aromatic plant. The colour of the flowers echoes his robes.

I had it in mind that this was a Coptic cross, so I looked it up. It is no longer, but was the cross of the early Coptic Church. It is actually an ankh, an ancient Egyptian hieroglyph signifying life or life-giving forces.

From The Spirit of Herbs: A Guide to the Herbal Tarot: the High Priest represents inner teacher, the small voice. The two pillars represent spiritual and practical knowledge. Sage was traditionally considered a powerful healing herb. The book refers to its use in Native American ceremonies (Van's note: that was a different, indigenous species: white sage, Salvia apiana, not the European S. officinalis, shown here). Here it is used to denote centredness, clarity and inner guidance.

Summary: the card encourages reliance on inner wisdom. I also get a strong feeling of liveliness and connection.