1. Origins of Tarot Cards: The exact origins of tarot cards are somewhat mysterious, but they are believed to have originated in the 14th century in Europe, likely in Italy. Initially, tarot cards were used primarily for playing card games, similar to modern-day playing cards.
2. Tarot for Divination: Over time, tarot cards began to be used for divination and spiritual purposes. The earliest known tarot decks specifically designed for divination purposes appeared in the 18th century. These decks often included additional cards beyond the standard playing card deck, such as the Major Arcana, which featured symbolic imagery associated with mystical and spiritual concepts.
3. Tarot Symbolism and Interpretation: Tarot decks typically consist of 78 cards divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Each card in the deck carries its own symbolism and meaning, which can be interpreted in various ways depending on the context of a reading. Tarot readers often use intuition, symbolism, and traditional interpretations to provide insights and guidance to individuals seeking answers or guidance in their lives.
4. Popularity and Spread: Tarot card readings gained popularity throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly among occultists, mystics, and spiritual seekers. Tarot decks were published and distributed widely, with each deck often reflecting the unique artistic style and interpretations of its creator.
5. Modern Tarot Practices: Today, tarot card readings are widely practiced and have evolved to encompass a diverse range of approaches and interpretations. While some practitioners adhere closely to traditional symbolism and meanings, others incorporate elements of psychology, spirituality, or personal intuition into their readings. Tarot readings are often used for self-reflection, spiritual growth, decision-making, and gaining insight into various aspects of life, including relationships, career, and personal development.

Overall, the history of tarot card readings is a testament to the enduring fascination with symbolism, mysticism, and the quest for deeper understanding of the human experience.

If the card is drawn in a reading, it is a representation of education and spirituality. That means that you may be considering taking a new course of study which adds to your qualification in structured institution such as a university/place of work. You may use your inner wisdom or a professional such as a teacher, mentor or therapist in the real world for advice to assist you on your journey.

At work, your boss may be an inspirational leader or others may see you as somebody they can come to for advice. Or, there might be an inner calling for you to work in a career to help others who need guidance. If you are a business owner, it may show that you need sound and non-judgemental advice and guidance of professionals such as a lawyer, banker or business-angel to assure your success on your next milestone.

In a spiritual point of view, you may be guided to follow a new conventional path, such as an organised religion which gives you a spiritual outlet.

If you are facing a roadblock in your own thinking, allow yourself to ask for help, especially from others that know better and are experienced. Be humble and courageous, as you are investing in yourself and moving forward for the better.

In a relationship reading, it may represent a commitment and possibly indicate marriage. You are comfortable with your partner and he/she can be the adviser to each other in the relationship. However, if you have fixed beliefs and refuse to seek professional advice, you may be viewed as being rebellious and inflexible. In the case of relationships, you might be thinking of divorce.

Sometimes The Hierophant card signals lessons learned. We have all gone through the period of difficulty, and we have all may have been swallowed by the anger, grief and stress that comes with it. Take the time to ask yourself, “What did I learn from this situation? What did it do to make me move forward?” These questions will help you process and release your past much more quickly.