Upright: Intuitive, unconscious, divine feminine

When the High Priestess appears upright in a reading, this is usually a sign to slow down and take your time before making a large decision. This card indicates that you should be relying heavily on your intuition and be open to other perspectives, rather than focusing on your intellect and what you’ve previously found to be true. As she is considered to be a “gatekeeper” at the ancient temples, she can also be related to anything holding you back as a gatekeeper in life. This can be seen as a symbol to accept that the path may be blocked, and trust that the gatekeeper in your life may be making the best decision by holding you back from certain opportunities that may seem like a positive change.

Reversed: Repressed feelings, withdrawal, silence

The High Priestess reversed, indicates the exact opposite. She still calls on you to be still, but to instead direct your attention inward and listen to wisdom. You may be being actively influenced by others and swept up in their ideas, when what you really need to do is focus on what’s right for you. It is time for you to withdraw and revaluate your situation before continuing on your path.

**In a yes/no reading, the High Priestess is a yes.