magdalene high priestess

The Magdalene High Priestess in the Biblical Tarot (with Tarot Spread)

magdalene high priestess

Today is the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene in the Catholic Church calendar. So it feels like the perfect day to take a closer look at the High Priestess card in our Biblical Tarot series. As you can see in the image above, Arcanum II of The Biblical Tarot features Mary Magdalene. But before we discuss the imagery in the Biblical Tarot Magdalene High Priestess card, I want us to take a look at the role of Mary Magdalene and how she has been portrayed in history.

Go straight to the Magdalene High Priestess Sub Rosa Tarot Spread

Spouse of Yeshua or Penitent Loose Woman?

The Gospel of Philip contains passages that illustrate the special relationship between Yeshua and Mary Magdalene. It indicates an intimate bond and favoured status. This begs the question why Pope Gregory tore her status to shreds in the 6th century but more on that later.

The Gospel of Philip

And the companion of the […] Mary Magdalene. […] loved her more than all the disciples, and used to kiss her often on her mouth. The rest of the disciples […]. They said to him “Why do you love her more than all of us?” The Savior answered and said to them, “Why do I not love you like her? When a blind man and one who sees are both together in darkness, they are no different from one another. When the light comes, then he who sees will see the light, and he who is blind will remain in darkness.”
~ Gospel of Philip

These verses suggest that Mary Magdalene held a unique and intimate connection with Yeshua. It is likely that she was his wife, a notion that challenges traditional Christian perceptions of their relationship.

We also know from the Gospel of Thomas and Mary Magdalene’s own Gospel that there was animosity toward Mary Magdalene from the apostle Peter. As we know Peter went on to become the head of the exoteric church. We could argue that Mary Magdalene became the head of the mystical branch of the church, at least for the first few hundred years. Were Peter and his descendants jealous of the love that Yeshua had for Mary Magdalene?

Mary Magdalene and St. Peter The High Priestess and the High Priest in the Mystical Tarot of the Saints

In the Mystical Tarot of the Saints, Mary Magdalene also represents The High Priestess. St. Peter, on the other hand, represents The Hierophant/High Priest and teacher of exoteric religion. In the Biblical Tarot, we see Mary Magdalene holding a book, perhaps her own Gospel. In the Mystical Tarot of the Saints, we see her in her role as the myrrhophore.

Gospel of Thomas

In the Gospel of Thomas, Peter displays a dismissive attitude towards Mary Magdalene:

“Simon Peter said to them, ‘Let Mary leave us, for women are not worthy of life.’ Jesus said, ‘I myself shall lead her in order to make her male, so that she too may become a living spirit resembling you males. For every woman who will make herself male will enter the kingdom of heaven.'”
— Gospel of Thomas 114

This passage highlights Peter’s reluctance to accept Mary’s role and status, reflecting underlying tensions between them.

Mary Magdalene High Priestess

Gospel of Mary Magdalene

Similarly, in the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, Peter questions Mary’s authority and the validity of her visions:

“Peter said to Mary, ‘Sister we know that the Savior loved you more than the rest of women. Tell us the words of the Savior which you remember – which you know but we do not, nor have we heard them.’
Mary answered and said, ‘What is hidden from you I will proclaim to you.’
And she began to speak to them these words:

She said, ‘I saw the Lord in a vision and I said to Him, “Lord I saw you today in a vision.”
He answered and said to me, “Blessed are you that you did not waver at the sight of Me. For where the mind is, there is the treasure.”‘

But Andrew answered and said to the brethren, ‘Say what you think concerning what she said. I do not believe that the Savior said this. For certainly these teachings are strange ideas.’
Peter answered and spoke concerning these same things.
He questioned them about the Savior: “Did He really speak privately with a woman and not openly to us? Are we to turn about and all listen to her? Did He prefer her to us?”
Then Mary wept and said to Peter, ‘My brother Peter, what do you think? Do you think that I have thought this up myself in my heart, or that I am lying concerning the Savior?’
Levi answered and said to Peter, ‘Peter you have always been hot tempered. Now I see you contending against the woman like the adversaries. But if the Savior made her worthy, who are you indeed to reject her? Surely the Savior knows her very well. That is why He loved her more than us.”

— Gospel of Mary 5:2-10

These passages from both gospels reveal the differing perspectives within early Christian communities regarding Mary Magdalene’s role and spiritual authority. As we know, Peter’s perspective won for nearly two thousand years, at least in terms of power and authority. But maybe this is changing now as more and more people become aware of Mary Magdalene and her message thanks to the recent discoveries of ancient manuscripts. Let’s hope so!

Magdalene High Priestess Imagery in the Biblical Tarot

The Magdalene High Priestess in the Biblical Tarot represents the archetypal mystic and keeper of esoteric wisdom. Unlike The Hierophant (represented by Aaron in the Biblical Tarot) who instructs his disciples in exoteric teachings and dogma, the High Priestess teaches only that which the student is ready to learn. Her transmissions are oral and ‘Sub Rosa’ under oath of secrecy.

The High Priestess archetype is the embodiment of someone who, like Mary Magdalene, has had to overcome much in order to become a keeper of wisdom. This is why Mary Magdalene who overcame the seven powers of the ego is the perfect correspondence for the HP card.

The Skulls and the Ego-Mind

In the Biblical Tarot, seven skulls represent the seven powers. We can think of these seven skulls as seven different programs that the ego-mind was running. This programming operates from the deep mind and it is by liberating this deep mind from false matrix programming that we become capable of ascending. This is why, in the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, we read:

“Where the mind is, there is the treasure.”

We cannot find this treasure until we gain self-knowledge. The Magdalene High Priestess archetype within each of us can show us the way through radical self-acceptance. The ‘mind’ referred to here is the ‘nous,’ a Greek word for the subtle mind/intuition that is able to grasp first principles. We can also think of this as the heart’s intelligence. Only through self-love can we overcome the fear-based narrative of the ego-mind.

The Accuser

In the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, the ego-mind is the accuser but because the soul has overcome the traps of the ego, it always has an answer:

“The soul answered and said, ‘What binds me has been slain, and what surrounds me has been overcome, and my desire has ended, and ignorance has died.'”

Once we see how the ego-mind binds us, we can consciously choose freedom.

Ignorance = Pain

“It’s not sin but ignorance of our true nature that creates suffering.” 
~Mary Magdalene Revealed by Meggan Watterson

The Gospel of Mary Magdalene is all about self-knowledge, the liberation of the soul and peeling away the layers of deception that bind us. As any mystic knows, laying down more rules and dogma simply generates more traps.

“Do not lay down any rules beyond what I appointed you, and do not give a law like the lawgiver lest you be constrained by it.”
~Gospel of Mary, 38

The Magdalene High Priestess is an embodiment of mystery and spiritual freedom beyond conventional rules and structures

Sub Rosa and Mary Magdalene’s Connection with Rose Symbolism

In the Biblical Tarot HP card, we also see roses scattered around the skulls. I added my own pink rose above the to card as Mary Magdalene gave me this sign a year ago. As mentioned above, Sub Rosa (Latin) means ‘under the rose.’ It refers to something done in secret or confidentiality. The term sub rosa can be traced back to ancient times. They would hang a rose over a meeting place to indicate that the discussion should remain private.

In Christian mysticism, the rose often symbolises hidden or esoteric wisdom. The rose’s association with secrecy is especially fitting for figures like Mary Magdalene as a keeper of esoteric knowledge. This aligns with her representation in various mystical traditions as holding secret teachings and deeper spiritual truths apart from mainstream dogma.

Mary Magdalene and the Rose Symbolism

Mary Magdalene’s connection to rose symbolism extends through several layers of Christian and Gnostic traditions:

  1. Bearer of Secret Teachings:
    • As highlighted in the Gospel of Philip and the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, Mary is shown sharing secret insights and having a profound, hidden understanding of Yeshua’s teachings.
  2. Connection to the Divine Feminine:
    • In many mystical traditions, the rose is symbolic of divine feminine energy. Mary Magdalene, within these traditions, embodies this energy as a spiritual counterpart to Yeshua.
  3. Gnosticism and the Rosicrucian Connection:
    • Gnostic texts and practices, which emphasise hidden knowledge and internal spiritual revelation, frequently employ the rose as a symbol. The Rosicrucian Order, an esoteric society, even takes its name from the rose, reflecting a heritage of secret wisdom akin to the teachings attributed to Mary Magdalene.

The Magdalene High Priestess Sub Rosa Tarot Spread

This Tarot spread can guide those on a Magdalene Priestess path, helping them grow in wisdom and self-knowledge. Each card in the spread reflects a key aspect of Mary Magdalene’s spiritual journey and teachings.

magdalene high priestess sub rosa tarot spread

Card Positions

  1. Root of Ego (Card of Ignorance)
    • The first card represents the root of ignorance that you must address to begin the journey of self-knowledge.
    • Question: What is the primary illusion that I need to overcome?
  2. Ego’s Accusation (Card of the Accuser)
    • Reveals the accusations or negative self-judgments stemming from the ego-mind that bind the soul.
    • Question: What accusation from my ego is currently holding me back?
  3. True Wisdom (Card of the Rose)
    • This card signifies the hidden wisdom or esoteric knowledge that Mary Magdalene offers to those who seek their true nature.
    • Question: What secret wisdom do I need to embrace?
  4. Overcoming Illusion (Card of Freedom)
    • Illustrates the process or approach to overcoming the false programming of the ego and achieving liberation.
    • Question: How can I liberate myself from the binds of illusion?
  5. Soul’s Message (Card of the Soul)
    • Represents the inner voice or soul’s message to the seeker, providing guidance from the higher self.
    • Question: What does my soul want me to know at this moment?
  6. Divine Connection (Card of the Divine Feminine)
    • Reflects the seeker’s connection with the divine feminine or the spiritual counterpart to their journey (akin to Yeshua’s relationship with Mary Magdalene).
    • Question: How can I deepen my connection with the divine feminine?
  7. Pathways of Self-Knowledge (Card of Insight)
    • Offers insights into the practice that will be most helpful in terms of enhancing self-knowledge and spiritual growth.
    • Question: What practice will help me gain self-knowledge?
  8. Sacred Teachings (Card of the Integration)
    • Represents how to integrate the insight gained from the practice above.
    • Question: How to integrate what I learn?
  9. Roses of Wisdom (Card of the Rose Symbolism)
    • Symbolises the blossoming of wisdom and the integration of esoteric knowledge, leading to spiritual freedom.
    • Question: How is my wisdom blossoming?

Preparing for the Reading

  1. Create a Sacred Space:
    • Begin by creating a peaceful, sacred space for your reading. You may choose to light a candle/incense or place roses (or other meaningful symbols) around your tarot deck.
  2. Prayer/Intention:
    • Shuffle the deck while saying a prayer or simply setting the intention for Magdalene High Priestess wisdom to come through.
  3. Draw the Cards:
    • Lay out the cards as shown in the layout. Take your time to reflect on the significance of each position before turning the cards over.
  4. Interpret the Spread:
    • Turn over each card one by one, reflecting on the question associated with its position. Take notes on your thoughts and feelings as you interpret each card’s message.
  5. Meditate and Reflect:
    • After the reading, spend some time meditating on the insights provided by the spread. Reflect on how you can integrate the messages into your daily life and spiritual practice.
  6. Journal:
    • Finally, journal your experience and the answers you received from the cards. This will help you track your progress and revisit the guidance whenever needed.

Sample Reading

sub rosa magdalene high priestess sample tarot reading with the biblical tarot

1. Root of Ego (Card of Ignorance) – The Hermit

The Hermit represents the root of ignorance in this spread. It suggests that your journey towards self-knowledge requires introspection and solitude. You need to confront the inward illusions that have kept you isolated. Seek the wisdom within, but be cautious of withdrawing too much from those around you.

2. Ego’s Accusation (Card of the Accuser) – 9 of Cups/Chalices

The 9 of Cups, a.k.a. the wish card, is here to show the part of your ego that tells you contentment and happiness are tied to outward achievements and pleasures. This card indicates that the ego mind accuses you of being unfulfilled when your wish list isn’t completed.

3. True Wisdom (Card of the Rose) – King of Pentacles/Grains

The King of Pentacles brings the message of true wisdom rooted in practicality and stewardship. Wisdom here lies in mastering the material world without letting it master you. It suggests that true contentment comes from building and sharing your resources wisely. To be ‘fully human’ in the words of Yeshua and Mary Magdalene is to be fully present to the needs of those around you.

4. Overcoming Illusion (Card of Freedom) – King of Wands/Candles

To overcome illusion, the King of Wands advises you to harness your inner fire and take bold actions. He embodies vision and leadership, urging you to break free from doubts and inspire others. Use your passion and creativity to dispel the ego’s limitations.

5. Soul’s Message (Card of the Soul) – The World

The World‘s presence as the soul’s message points to the completion of a cycle and unity with the universe. Your soul wants you to recognise your wholeness and interconnectedness with all beings. It’s time to embrace your unique essence and celebrate how far you have come.

6. Divine Connection (Card of the Divine Feminine) – Page of Cups/Chalices

The Page of Cups signifies a gentle, intuitive connection with the divine feminine. This card encourages you to open your heart to subtle messages and dreams. Nurture your emotional intelligence and trust your intuition to guide your spiritual journey.

7. Pathways of Self-Knowledge (Card of Insight) – 6 of Pentacles/Grains

The 6 of Pentacles suggests that self-knowledge will grow through acts of generosity and balance. Engaging in giving and receiving, recognising your interdependence with others, will open pathways to deeper insights about yourself and your place in the world.

8. Sacred Teachings (Card of the Integration) – Page of Pentacles/Grains

The Page of Pentacles represents the youthful pursuit of knowledge and practical skills. To integrate the insights you’ve gained, adopt a curious and diligent mindset. Embrace learning as a lifelong journey and apply your new wisdom in practical ways.

9. Roses of Wisdom (Card of the Rose Symbolism) – Temperance

Temperance, as the Roses of Wisdom card, symbolises harmony and balance. This card suggests that your wisdom is blossoming through the peaceful integration of diverse aspects of your life. Seek moderation and blend different elements to find your spiritual equilibrium.

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