This article continues my series examining the trumps of the Tarot de Marseille, adapted from my unpublished manuscript, Tarot de Marseille: The Picturebook of Fate. As throughout this series, the emphasis is placed upon the traditional eikōn of the card, its historical context, and the practical significations I have found useful through divinatory practice. The interpretations presented here reflect my own experience of working with the Tarot de Marseille and should be understood as a working method rather than a definitive authority.
The Fives: The Pope and Temperance
Trump V, Le Pape, or the Pope, is a card that is both misunderstood and misrepresented. Is he merely a conservative patriarch determined to preserve the status quo at all costs? Why do some interpret him as a symbol of bureaucracy, institutions, and red tape? Or does he challenge us to look beyond our assumptions and his imposing regalia to see something altogether deeper?
The traditional eikōn of the Pope is both familiar and remarkably consistent. We see an enthroned pontiff vested in a cassock and cappa magna or ferraiolo. One hand is raised in blessing, with two fingers and the thumb extended whilst the ring and little finger remain folded, signifying both the Trinity and the dual nature of Christ. In his other hand he bears a ferula and upon his head rests the Triregnum. At his feet kneel two tonsured figures, receiving his instruction and guidance.
The essence of the Pope is Wisdom; his function is to act as an intermediary. The distinction is important. The Pope does not represent knowledge alone, nor scholarship, intelligence, or learning for their own sake. Wisdom is something rather different. It is one of the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit and concerns the ability to perceive reality as it truly is. Wisdom enables us to move beyond our prejudices, passions, and limited perspectives in order to discern Truth and align ourselves with the highest good. The Pope therefore stands not for information, but for understanding.
In modern Europe, where attitudes towards organised religion are often mixed and relativism reigns supreme, the card is frequently recast as a symbol of oppression, conservatism, or institutional authority. Yet this is a superficial reading. The Pope represents neither a particular denomination nor a rigid ideology. Rather, he embodies the principle of Wisdom itself. His role is not to dominate but to guide, not to command but to illuminate. The two acolytes at his feet remind us that wisdom is something transmitted, received, and cultivated through instruction, reflection, and experience.
For this reason, the Pope commonly manifests in readings as a mentor, teacher, elder, counsellor, doctor, or other trusted adviser. Such individuals often appear when guidance is needed and uncertainty prevails. Through a combination of Percipience and inspiration, they help us understand what is truly important and steer us towards the best possible outcome. The Pope reminds us that there is no shame in seeking advice from those who possess greater experience or insight.
The card also challenges us to examine our conscience. Whilst the Empress asks us to communicate and the Emperor to take responsibility, the Pope asks whether we are acting rightly. He encourages reflection upon our motives, our obligations, and the consequences of our choices. In doing so, he becomes an intermediary between the ordinary concerns of daily life and the higher principles by which those concerns ought to be judged.
When the Pope appears, he often signals that guidance, support, or wise counsel is available. More importantly, he asks us to become a source of such guidance ourselves. The card calls us to act with integrity, to place service before selfishness, and to pursue the highest good available within the circumstances before us. In this sense, the Pope is not simply a figure of authority. He is a reminder that true wisdom is expressed through love, understanding, and right action.
General: Wisdom gained through the union of experience, learning, and Percipience. The Pope encourages the querent to look beyond immediate concerns and consider the wider implications of a situation. In times of difficulty, the conscience becomes a reliable guide. The card frequently signifies support, guidance, wise counsel, or the intervention of a trusted intermediary acting on the querent’s behalf.
Love: For established couples, the Pope confirms that the relationship rests upon strong foundations of love, respect, and mutual understanding. Difficulties can be overcome through openness, forgiveness, and a willingness to listen. The card frequently appears in connection with marriage, civil partnerships, and other formal commitments. For those who are single, the Pope tends to promise friendship, guidance, and emotional support rather than the immediate arrival of a new romantic interest.
Career: The Pope is naturally associated with religious vocations of all traditions, including contemporary pagan and spiritual paths. Secular professions include teaching, medicine, counselling, social work, psychotherapy, coaching, divination, and any occupation centred upon guidance, instruction, or the welfare of others. More generally, the card indicates a mentor, adviser, or influential figure whose support can prove invaluable.
Finance: The Pope often indicates a stable and reliable source of income together with the wisdom to manage resources sensibly. Financial difficulties are seldom faced alone under this card. Assistance, advice, or practical support is frequently available through trusted professionals, institutions, family members, or benefactors. The Pope favours prudent decisions and seeking expert guidance before making significant commitments.
Health: More often than not, the Pope signifies a doctor, specialist, therapist, or other trusted healthcare professional. As such, he is generally regarded as a favourable sign in health matters and frequently indicates appropriate treatment, sound advice, and recovery. Anatomically, the card is associated with the muscular system, particularly the thighs, buttocks, and groin.
Essence: Wisdom.
Function: Mediator.
Polarity: Positive.
Astrological Association: Sagittarius.
Timing: December.
§
Tarot Cards: Jean Dodal Tarot via Wikipedia Commons. Public Domain.
Featured Image: Ancient Tarot Major Arcana © BP Grimaud/John Waddington Ltd, Leeds & London, Les Tarot de Marseille Jean Noblet, 1650 © Editions «letarot.com» (2001 [hand stencilled trumps]). Les Tarot de Marseille Jean Dodal, 1701 et 1715 © Editions «letarot.com» (2002 [hand stencilled trumps])
Journal of a Cartomante 