The Heirophant

I followed through with my goal and secured residency in my new state today. I even registered to vote. The DMV wasn't very full. I was seen not ten minutes after I walked in the door and took my number (665). For a government institution, it was a refreshing experience.

And of course I drew the Hierophant today, which is the card of education, belief systems, group identification, and conformity. The man on the card holds a staff and two keys, and is dressed in ceremonial robes as he beckons the learner. Facts, rules, procedures, and rituals follow in his wake. In readings, he can represent learning within a group, or from great experts or knowledgeable teachers. He's the institution. He's also a symbol of the need to conform to one's current situation. As I did today by securing state residency. Here, it is practically impossible to get a job unless you're a citizen of the state. Though I didn't want to do it, I had to, and so conformed. For better or worse, I've gotten a new group identity.

I don't necessarily like the message of this card, but it's useful to remember when it comes up that identifying with a larger group doesn't have to be stifling. It can be freeing, rather like medical insurance, or enriching, like a college education. In a future reading, he could be associated with getting a job at a larger organization, one having to do with learning or law. These could all be very good things for the individual who pulls the Hierophant.

Still. For better or worse, he represents the Man, benefits and disadvantages both. Including my brand new state Income tax. Oi.