The Return of the High Priestess
Image Unkown Artist
In our modern world, power often rests in the hands of men in suits and robes. Across different faiths, the clergy—whether priest, rabbi, imam, or sadhu—is predominantly male. This dominance isn't confined to the religious sphere; it permeates politics and business, with men frequently occupying positions of authority. While efforts are underway to diversify professional and political realms, religious spaces remain largely male-dominated.
However, history tells a different story, looking back to ancient Greece, Egypt and even the beginings of Christianity, reveals a past where women held prominent roles. They not only presided over major religious rituals but were sought as High Priestesses for guidance on matters of war, politics, and economics. The Tarot invites us to reconsider the power structures of old, where women wielded significant influence and wisdom.
The Tarot is a deck of 78 cards that is often associated with divination, esotericism, and the occult. The history and origins of the Tarot are shrouded in mystery, and its association with the occult can be traced to its complex symbolism, rich imagery, and its use in mystical and spiritual practices. I particularly love the Tarot because it contains symbols and archetypes that can guide us through difficult times in our lives. When we seek for clarity, it’s as if our higher self speaks to us through the cards.
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Few years ago, when I was battling with additction, I sought the wisdom of the Tarot to help me navigate my vice. Each time I pulled a card, the Devil appeared. The imagery of the Devil card frequently includes figures bound or chained to a central figure representing the Devil. This symbolizes a sense of being trapped, controlled, or manipulated by negative habits, or unhealthy relationships. This was very telling of my situation and I knew that my higher self was communicating with me, and this was a message I could not ignore. It’s a powerful tool to employ if you too wish to gain clarity upon any situation that you find yourself in.
For the sake of this article however, I want to speak more deeply about the High Priestess. Among its 78 cards, the High Priestess card stands as a beacon of mystery, intuition, and spiritual depth. In this article, I want to trace back into history to the origins of the enigmatic High Priestess, how she grew in occult significance. Furthermore, I will explore several cults from Egypt & Greece dedicated to the Priestess and their mystical rituals, which included rituals of anointing with perfume oils to access altered states of consciousness and divine the future. We'll also delve into how women can connect with their inner High Priestess through the rhythmic dance of their menstrual cycles.
Artist Unkown
1. The High Priestess in the Tarot: Gateway to the Occult
The High Priestess card in the Tarot serves as a portal to the mystical and occult realms. She is often portrayed as a veiled figure seated between two pillars, embodying the balance between light and shadow. This duality suggests that the High Priestess is a bridge between the conscious and the unconscious, the seen and the unseen.The High Priestess is a symbol of hidden knowledge, intuition, and the sacred feminine. She encourages us to listen to our inner voice, trust our instincts, and connect with the depths of our subconscious mind. She represents the idea that answers to our questions can often be found within ourselves. The High Priestess is associated with the mysteries of life and the esoteric. She invites us to explore the hidden and spiritual aspects of existence, urging us to look beyond the surface and delve into the enigmatic aspects of life. As with many archetypes of the Divine Feminine, The High Priestess is associated with the Moon, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life, emotions, and the influence of lunar phases on our psyche. The Moon's phases mirror the waxing and waning of human experiences. She signifies heightened awareness and psychic abilities. The High Priestess encourages us to trust our dreams, visions, and subtle insights, as they can guide us in our spiritual journey. The High Priestess invites us to embark on a spiritual quest, to explore the realms of the unconscious, and to seek deeper understanding of life's mysteries.
Image: Cat Crawford
3. Historical Links to the High Priestess
The archetype of the High Priestess is deeply rooted in historical traditions. One of the most famous examples of a high priestess in ancient Greece was the Pythia, who served at the Oracle of Delphi. The Pythia was the chief priestess of Apollo and acted as the oracle through which the god delivered prophecies. Her role was vital in advising leaders and individuals on important matters. Interestingly, there is an even more ancient origin to Pythia being associated with Gaia, Mother Earth. It is said that Apollo slayed a great serpentdragon that was the guardian of the Sacred Well, which was the realm of Mother Earth. We will explore how this story became more complicated in forthcoming articles.
Likewise, The Eleusinian Mysteries also in ancient Greece, were annual secret initiatory ceremonies, and much of the details and symbolism associated with them remain shrouded in mystery. These mysteries were believed to offer initiates insights into the cycles of life, death, and rebirth, and they were centered around the myth of Demeter and Persephone. These initatory mysteries involved a chief priestess, often known as the "Hierophant." The term "hierophant" (literally meaning "revealer of sacred things") was used to refer to the chief priestess responsible for conducting the sacred ceremonies at Eleusis. The Hierophant of the Eleusinian Mysteries held a position of great importance and authority within the context of these ancient Greek religious rites.
The worship of the goddess Isis in ancient Egypt and later throughout the Greco-Roman world involved a hierarchy of priestesses who played significant roles in the religious rituals and practices associated with the cult of Isis.
4. Anointing Rituals Related to the High Priestess
Anointing with sacred oils has been an integral part of many high priestess traditions. These oils, often infused with fragrant botanicals, were used for purification, consecration, and connecting with the divine. The act of anointing was a ritual in itself, symbolizing the awakening of the senses and a deepening of spiritual connection.
Image@ Billy Freeman
5. Embracing Your Inner High Priestess through Menstrual Cycles
Just as the High Priestess guards hidden wisdom, women have the opportunity to connect with their inner High Priestess through the cyclical phases of their menstrual cycles. The Maiden, Mother, Enchantress, and Crone archetypes mirror the phases of menstruation, inviting women to embrace their inherent wisdom, intuition, and the ever-revolving journey of self-discovery.
Image: Alice Alinari
High Priestess card in the Tarot is a timeless symbol of spiritual depth and intuition. She beckons us to explore the enigmatic and sacred dimensions of our inner selves. The historical links between high priestesses in various cultures and the use of anointing oils underscore the importance of connecting with the divine. Through their menstrual cycles, women can discover and embrace their inner High Priestess, empowering themselves to explore the hidden knowledge that lies within.