Hierophant—Pope or Hierophant?

Abrac

There has been a some debate over this issue, but it's not really an issue when you understand the meaning which Waite commonly attaches to the word "hierophant." The word does refer to a priest of the ancient Elusinian mysteries, but its etymology also points to broader meaning, "I show, make known." It's this meaning that Waite uses quite frequently, i.e., an interpreter of arcane knowledge. The Hierophant card is clearly a Catholic Pope, but he's also a "hierophant" in his role as interpreter of doctrine for the masses. :)