Barbara Walker Tarot - 2: The Papess

[EmpyreanKnight]

 

 

2: The Papess

 

The female spiritual authority sits between her temple pillars, Alpha and Omega, with an open book on her lap. The Keys of the Kingdom lie before her; a veil hangs behind. Early tarot decks showed her as Pope Joan, of the ninth century, who is said to have occupied the papal throne in male disguise until she was discovered and murdered. The Papess is also identified with Sophia/Sapientia, the Gnostic Great Mother, who embodies Wisdom and provides God with his “I-deas” (Goddess-spirits) and ability to act. Thus, she is like the Asian goddess Shakti. She is especially linked with the moon, which was once thought to give women their life-producing “wise blood.” Her card means scholarship, teaching, revelation, entrance to the temple of Wisdom.