Of Hierophants & Sycophants

19th Century Swiss 1JJ Tarot deck. Jupiter & Juno were used to replace two cards that are now commonly used in today’s decks.

Although in modern times the word "flatterer" is often used to describe someone who eagerly seeks to please others, its original meaning refers to one who deceives by making false accusations. This difference in interpretation allows for a thought-provoking comparison with the hierophant, who is also responsible for presenting truths but of a holy nature.

By carefully examining the similarities and differences between these two figures, we can acquire a more intricate understanding of the intricate dynamics that govern trust, manipulation, the control of knowledge, and the composure of society.

The Revealer of Divine Truth VS the Revealer of Figs

The original origin of the term (sukon/sykos/συκος fig, and phainein/fanēs/φανης to show) mirrors the concept of a "revealer of figs¹."

Throughout different eras and in diverse societies, figs have consistently possessed symbolic connotations relating to ideas such as fertility, abundance, and sweetness. Given their enduring significance, figs have been universally recognized as a profound emblem capable of unlocking promises of prosperity and satisfaction. Nevertheless, these promises might also carry an aspect of deception or impermanence.

Concerning deceit, figs are often associated with forbidden wisdom or enticement in various cultural customs. When a sycophant presents "figs," it may signify their alluring utilization of shallow incentives or manipulation of desires to acquire power. On the other hand, certain explanations attribute figs to the quest for profound wisdom and personal enlightenment. Serving as a mentor along this journey, the Hierophant reveals profound verities and concealed truths, transcending mere superficial assurances.

Sycophants as the "revealer of figs" may not present authentic abundance or knowledge. They have the ability to manipulate perceptions, providing deceptive fruits as replacements for genuine contentment or insight. Their unveiling may be driven by personal advantage or authority rather than a sincere intention to impart knowledge or aid others. They exploit the longing for abundance and wisdom for their own objectives. The "figs" they proffer may yield temporary gratification or shallow resolutions that ultimately fail to foster lasting development or comprehension.

In Athenian society, the act of bringing false accusations was condemned and carried serious consequences. These individuals, known as sycophants, would file complaints seeking financial gain or to coerce defendants into dropping charges. Alternatively, according to some scholars, sycophants were regarded as contentious litigants, excessively eager to prosecute others. Their actions were characterized by obsequiousness, as they would bring forward unrelated past incidents in an attempt to draw out and amplify public attention towards the disputes.

Sycophancy extended beyond mere manipulation for personal benefit; it also involved citizens leveraging their social status for financial gain. For instance, one could employ a sycophant to fabricate false accusations against their adversaries or undertake official responsibilities. These responsibilities encompassed introducing decrees, acting as an advocate or witness, bribing officials, and engaging in dubious activities.

Consequently, sycophants were perceived as disruptive and parasitic individuals who disregarded the principles of truth and justice. They utilized their skills to harm their opponents for personal gain, even if they had no personal investment in the matter at hand. Their conduct seemed to lack the integrity and ethical standards expected of politicians, demonstrating a lack of comprehension regarding the pursuit of the common good.

A hierophant, from the Ancient Greek term ἱεροφάντης (hierophantēs), fulfills the role of facilitating the encounter of religious adherents with that which is considered sacred. A revealer and translator of divine spiritual truths and enigmatic concepts.

In ancient Greece, the individual occupying the esteemed position of the leader of the Eleusinian cult (among other cults), which was the most renowned among the enigmatic religions of the time, held the responsibility of conducting the recitation of sacred symbols during the observance of the mysterious rites. At the initiation of these ceremonies, this prominent figure would assert that any impure individuals would be prohibited from participating—an edict that he possessed the authority to uphold.²

In other areas the hierophant was the chief priest of the cult of Demeter. They had a special role within the Eumolpidae family³ and held their position for life. They acted as a guide and taught important secrets to initiates, revealing the essential nature of Demeter's cult and played the parts of Hades and Zeus during the sacred telling of Persephone's story.

The hierophant also called for peace and asked different cities for offerings for the Greater Mysteries at Eleusis. They were responsible for interpreting and announcing the laws of these Mysteries. The hierophant also managed the sanctuary and dealt with any problems that arose. Sometimes, accusations were brought against the hierophant themselves, like in the case of Archias⁴, who improperly made a sacrifice with a courtesan.

The hierophant's main duty was to maintain order and law in Eleusis. The Greater Mysteries were a religious festival that required practical responsibilities, like providing food and lodging for thousands of people. Alongside magistrates and slaves, the hierophant would watch over the marketplace, making sure that greedy merchants didn't ruin the festival or the city's sanctity.

The office of the hierophant was highly respected in Athens and the individual held greater honors compared to other priests in the city. Their name was first on the aeisitoi list and they sat in a special seat in the theater. The hierophant also had the power to refuse initiation to certain people. During the Mysteries celebration, the hierophant stood out in the crowd because of their unique clothing, which included a chiton and a purple ceremonial garment decorated with golden stars.

Differences in Intent and Effects

Although both sycophants and hierophants aim to shape perceptions, their motivations and impacts can vary significantly.

Sycophants, driven by selfish motives, exploit flattery and favor-seeking tactics to gain personal advantages and rewards. By charming and ingratiating themselves with those in power, they seek to secure positions of influence, privileges, and material benefits.

In contrast, hierophants, typically found within religious or spiritual contexts, exercise their authority by providing interpretations or insights into sacred knowledge. Their motivations may be rooted in a sincere desire to guide and enlighten followers, albeit with the underlying goal of solidifying their own power and influence within the religious hierarchy.

In their pursuit of success, sycophants rely on manipulation and cunning tactics to sway others to their advantage. Conversely, hierophants embrace enlightenment and wisdom to illuminate the path towards accomplishment for themselves and those around them.

Sycophants primarily employ flattery and obsequious behavior to gain favor and manipulate those in positions of authority. By appealing to the egos of their superiors and feeding their desire for admiration, they skillfully navigate the intricate web of power dynamics, ultimately influencing decisions and outcomes to their advantage.

On the other hand, hierophants use of authority through the control of knowledge and access to sacred rituals or texts. By tightly controlling who can access and interpret such information, they effectively shape the beliefs and practices of their followers, cementing their position as spiritual guides or leaders. Nolite perdere bona qui non bene illis.

Both sycophants and hierophants hold considerable power to influence others, but their impact can differ in terms of the domains they affect.

Sycophants primarily focus on manipulating behaviors and actions. Through their flattery and cunning, they persuade individuals in power to make choices that align with their own interests. This can range from influencing professional opportunities and career advancements to swaying decision-making processes in favor of their patrons.

Hierophants, on the other hand, exert their influence on beliefs and ideologies. By providing interpretations of sacred knowledge, they shape the spiritual, moral, and ethical frameworks within which their followers operate. Their authority allows them to mold the worldview of their adherents, influencing everything from personal values to societal norms and practices.

Both sycophants and hierophants heavily rely on trust as an essential element, recognizing its profound influence in driving their contrasting ambitions towards fruition.

Sycophants rely on the trust they establish with those in power to gain access to sensitive information and secure personal advantages. Their ability to maintain the appearance of loyalty and sincerity plays a pivotal role in ensuring that they remain in the good graces of their patrons, thus ensuring a continued flow of benefits.

Hierophants, on the other hand, honor the trust placed in them by their followers. By positioning themselves as conduits of sacred knowledge and divine guidance, they foster an unwavering faith in their teachings and interpretations. The trust bestowed upon them allows hierophants to maintain their authority and sustain the influence they hold over their followers.

When considering the ethical implications of these roles, it becomes evident that the false accusations associated with sycophants are inherently unethical and detrimental. By falsely flattering and ingratiating themselves to gain favor, sycophants create a deceitful and manipulative environment, causing harm to others in a direct and personal manner. This behavior not only undermines trust but also damages relationships and individual well-being.

In stark contrast, while it is true that hierophants possess the potential of manipulation and pursuing personal gain like any human, their intentions might genuinely revolve around serving a greater good or preserving valuable traditions. Hierophants believed that their actions are integral to the maintenance of societal order and the continuation of ancient wisdom.

Furthermore, the impact of sycophants and hierophants varies in terms of scope. A sycophant typically affects individuals in immediate and tangible ways. Through their self-serving actions and deceitful tactics, they may gain personal advantages at the expense of others. This narrow focus on individual gain restricts the reach of their influence to the immediate surroundings and the people directly involved.

The influence of a hierophant extends far beyond the confines of their immediate vicinity. Through their role in shaping beliefs, practices, and the dissemination of knowledge, hierophants can potentially impact entire communities and societies for generations to come. The significance of their impact lies in their ability to sway the collective mindset, shaping the way a community or society functions and perceives the world.

All In the Cards

The card at the very top of this article is from an early tarot deck⁵. It is worth exploring the esoteric meaning of the Hierophant within the Tarot.

Reevaluating the Hierophant Tarot Archetype

In the Major Arcana, the Hierophant resides is frequently depicted as an authoritative figure, he has been linked to both rigid dominance and the disclosure of divine wisdom. This examination aims to redirect our attention, presenting the Hierophant not as a controller, but rather as a promoter of structure and a channel for profound enlightenment.

Dissemination of Traditional Knowledge

The Hierophant assumes the role of a guardian of well-established doctrines and rituals. He represents the conveyance of wisdom from the divine realm to the physical world, serving as a link between the mysterious and the concrete.

Rather than solely relaying information, he encourages individuals to actively interact with established systems and customs, prompting them to delve into the extensive tapestry of knowledge passed down through the ages. By doing so, he instills individuals with the ability to interpret and incorporate these profound understandings into their personal quests for self-realization.

Guidance and Cultivation of Comprehension

The Hierophant goes beyond the act of imposing decrees and instead epitomizes the position of a committed mentor. He promotes the pursuit of knowledge, the development of discerning thoughts, and the advancement of oneself based on long-established virtues. He offers a sanctuary to those searching for answers, promoting candid discussions and establishing an atmosphere where individuals can nurture their own comprehension of the world.

This nurturing method stands in direct opposition to the deceitful strategies employed by sycophants, who aim to exert influence and dominance rather than enabling and enlightening others.

Maintaining Organization and Enhancing Connectivity

The importance of the Hierophant goes beyond personal enlightenment. He symbolizes the concepts of organization and framework, offering stability and unity within society. Through the preservation of established customs and practices, he promotes a sense of community and a shared understanding.

Such dedication cultivates a feeling of inclusion, ultimately fortifying the bonds of society and providing individuals with a solid base to begin their own personal quests. Through the reevaluation of the Hierophant's role in terms of the transmission of knowledge, mentorship, and fostering social unity, we acquire a more profound recognition of his beneficial impact.

Rather than being perceived as someone who manipulates, he emerges as a facilitator of structure, a cultivator of comprehension, and a conduit to deep revelations. Although interpretations of Tarot archetypes may differ, embracing the Hierophant's constructive qualities urges us to place importance on authentic guidance, analytical thinking, and the quest for truth as we navigate the intricate complexity of existence.

Via Crowley’s Thoth Tarot Deck

In accordance with Crowley's perspective, the Hierophant represents the epoch of Osiris, encapsulating the final two millennia. The inclusion of the infant Horus at its core (within the star) signifies the imminent emergence of the primary Horus's era.

Crowley held the belief that existing frameworks, such as the Tarot deck, possess the capability to serve as means for personal emancipation rather than mechanisms of domination. In his perspective, the Hierophant symbolizes the capacity of established customs to steer individuals in their distinctive paths towards self-realization, rather than confining them within predetermined boundaries.

Crowley establishes a connection between the Hierophant and the celestial entity Jupiter, representing notions of expansion, knowledge, and the pursuit of ultimate truth. He guides individuals towards achieving "gnosis," which involves experiencing the direct encounter with the divine hidden within the mundane realm. This alignment is indeed logical, as historically, and possibly not without significance, Jupiter has been associated with the Hierophant, as previously mentioned.

In terms of the sycophant's esoteric comprehension, no other card embodies this attribute more aptly than The Devil. The inclusion of The Devil card not only represents temptation, but also manipulation and the captivating impact of false perceptions. The sycophant's ability to warp realities and exploit vulnerabilities harmonizes flawlessly with the deceitful charisma and authoritative dominion that The Devil exerts over others. Both the sycophant and The Devil flourish by capitalizing on people's desires and weaknesses, ultimately diverting individuals from their true paths.

The Secular VS the Holy

Looking at the differentiation between a sycophant and a hierophant, another lens through which to comprehend this concept is by examining the contrast between a secular society and a religious society. Even within secular societies, there exists a yearning among individuals for the presence of religious institutions. However, rather than seeking guidance and spirituality from some theist organization, these sycophants, past and present, direct their aspirations towards the political machinery as a conduit to wield influence over others, assuming the role of the "revealer of the figs."

In secular societies, the influence of established religious institutions may not carry the same weight as it does in traditional communities. As a result, a void emerges where individuals may seek alternative sources of guidance and a sense of belonging. Consequently, the political domain can come to serve as a substitute for religious authority, providing individuals with a sense of purpose and affiliation.

Within this context, sycophants exploit the human desire for structure and association, manipulating political narratives and ideologies to further their own self-serving agendas. In such circumstances, charismatic leaders who tap into emotionally vulnerable individuals and offer simplistic solutions can assume the role of the "bearer of truth" within secular societies. These individuals exploit feelings of anxiety and discontent, skillfully manipulating information and perceptions for the purpose of attaining power and influence.

Recreation, not Unlike Tactics, Encompasses a Similar Field

Alfiere

If the analogy of society was chess, the Hierophant would be the Bishop. The diagonal motion of the Bishop on the chessboard and its link to the clergy effectively correspond to the Hierophant's pivotal function as a mediator, facilitating connections between the earthly and celestial spheres. In a similar vein to the Bishop's fluid movements on the chessboard, the Hierophant adeptly navigates the diagonals of the spiritual/secular, harmoniously uniting them. Moreover, the Bishop's capacity to offer guidance to individuals serves as a representation of the Hierophant's function in skillfully steering people, akin to strategically placed and skillfully maneuvered Bishop chess pieces leading to triumph.

The diagonal motion additionally implies a willingness to embrace a myriad of explanations and spiritual avenues. This concurs with the Hierophant's responsibility as an advocate for individual paths of belief, fostering introspection and intimate communion with the divine. The hierophant acknowledges that true spiritual enlightenment can manifest through both traditional establishments and personal expeditions under his counsel.

The Bishop's strategic methodology in offering guidance is evident through his indirect maneuvering. Rather than directly confronting issues, he utilizes understated persuasion and capitalizes on individuals' innate capabilities. This illustrates the Bishop's position as a mentor and facilitator, as he seeks to cultivate independent thinking and self-sufficiency rather than imposing rigid directives. It is crucial to acknowledge that this approach sharply diverges from the manipulative strategies employed by sycophants, as the Bishop places empowerment above control and deceit.

I have always found the game of Shogi more interesting than chess. Here, we consider the Hierophant to also be a Bishop-like piece, the kakugyō⁶. Those who understand the unique qualities of Shogi will immediately recognize that the Kakugyō's capacity to ascend to the prestigious position of Ryuma⁷, representing the emblematic Dragon Horse, underscores the pivotal function assumed by the Hierophant in facilitating personal metamorphosis and spiritual growth for individuals as well as a guide for the ruling class. As individuals advance to the status of Ryuma, their mobility and potency undergo augmentation, symbolizing the elevated state of awareness and understanding attained during their journeys of self-exploration.

Speaking of Shogi, if you are a fan of fiction works which employ chess metaphors you will certainly want to pick up a copy of Shibumi⁸. The portrayal of Shogi in the novel is not only sophisticated, but it also functions as a metaphorical depiction of the complex political landscape. This intriguing narrative explores the realm of political machinations, providing a deep understanding of the inner workings of intelligence and surveillance organizations in the real world, highlighting their exceptional accuracy and efficacy. Highly accurate, even to this day.

Concluding Remarks

In order to escape from the dominance of sycophants in our society, it is crucial that we establish a strong foundation of hierophants rooted in ancient religious traditions. In the absence of authoritative figures, such as Hierophants, one may find oneself adrift in the complexities of existence

During such occurrences, individuals who opportunistically exploit others and manipulate narratives in order to fill voids in secular politics often thrive. Reviving the customs and teachings of ancient religions, steeped in generations of wisdom and established structures, may serve as a counterpoint to the erosion of social values. As guardians of these traditions, Hierophants possess the ability to offer individuals a moral framework, a deeper comprehension of the universe, and a sense of belonging within a meaningful community.

The modern hierophant replacements in Abrahamic traditions, such as the pope, possess limitations and are deemed inadequate and nonessential. Additionally, the ways in which institutions representing Abrahamic religions eventually lead societies to secularism.

Instances such as the Crusades, Inquisition, or specific interpretations of a scripture unrelated to European ancestral customs are perceived as diverging from the principles upheld by the esteemed ancient Hierophants. The transition from Christianity to Atheism necessitates the inclusion of a dedicated exposition; however, I will provide a concise overview. The absurdity of Christianity is apparent to the youth that obviously see confounding nature of Christianity. However, certain individuals who do not perceive any other viable option, such as pre-Christian ideologies, resort to secularism. In a world devoid of religion, secularism cannot find a place to coexist without reinventing religion in some fashion; therefore, these individuals, as sycophants, transform political matters and other social justice phenomena into quasi-religious entities.

The concept can be further demonstrated by the example of an individual inadvertently embodying a neo-Christian mindset while functioning as a sycophant. This person may not even be cognizant of the fact that their beliefs and actions are in alignment with such an ideology. The individual in question could be an innocent person who openly rejects their upbringing in the Christian faith, or someone who identifies as a deist or even an atheist. What they fail to acknowledge is that by forsaking the idea of 'equality in the eyes of God' advocated by their Christian upbringing, and instead adopting the principle of 'equality before the law,' they are still inherently shaped by Christian principles, albeit unknowingly.

The sycophant, revealer of figs. Decayed figs prevail indefinitely until they are dealt with.

1. Plutarch originally proposed the etymology of the term "sycophant" as originating from laws prohibiting the exportation of figs. Those who accused others of unlawfully exporting figs were referred to as sycophants. According to Blackstone's Commentaries, sycophants were named as such due to laws forbidding the theft of figs from gardens. A divergent interpretation suggests that sycophant derived from the act of vigorously shaking fig trees in order to uncover concealed fruit. Sycophants employ false accusations as a means to compel the accused to divulge confidential information. These unfounded charges were perceived as insults or trivial matters. Scholars consider these hypotheses to have been contrived at a later stage. Other scholars posit that sycophant possessed a vulgar connotation associated with figs and encompassed behaviors such as aggressive prosecution or the divulgence of private matters. - From The Encyclopædia Britannica 11th Edition

2. Also from Britannica.

3. The Eumolpidae, residing in Eleusis, fulfilled the role of priests responsible for preserving the sacred Eleusinian Mysteries. Their endeavors facilitated a wider inclusion of individuals in the cult, enabling more individuals to partake in the revelation of the secrets of Demeter and Persephone.

4. Archias was a well-known tragedian from Thurii. Antipater tasked him with apprehending the fugitives from Athens who were condemned to capital punishment, encompassing renowned figures such as Demosthenes. Archias forcibly apprehended Hyperides, Aritonicus, and Himeraeus, who sought refuge in a temple, and subsequently handed them over to Antipater for execution. Such actions of disregarding sacred asylum and forcefully apprehending political adversaries could be interpreted as acts of sycophancy. Further, Archias' function in capturing and delivering condemned individuals to Antipater shares similarities with the actions of sycophants seeking to appease authorities and secure personal benefits, exceptional for him that he personally engaged in the task instead of seeking legal redress 2nd hand.

5. Jupiter and Juno were chosen to replace the Popess and Pope cards (which are now known as the Hierophant and the High Priestess) due to concerns about the Church's disapproval of divination being associated with the Holy See. This decision was made to avoid any negative consequences from the church.

6. It is intriguing to observe that, perhaps consciously or unconsciously, the word also invokes the thought of a gentleman named Hasegawa Kakugyo, who was revered as the originator of the belief system by the adherents of the Fuji-kō religion in the Edo era. These pious, dutiful actions bears a strong resemblance to the characteristics typically associated with a Hierophant figure.

7. In Chinese mythology, the longma represents a legendary being commonly envisioned as a regal equine possessing extraordinary wings and dragon-like scales. The sighting of this mystical creature holds profound symbolism, as it serves as a premonitory indication heralding the imminent presence of an esteemed sage-ruler. This exalted role carries deep associations with the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, fabled characters who played pivotal roles in molding the annals of ancient Chinese history and the development of its civilization.

8. Special thanks to

Robert Furtkamp

for introducing me to this novel a while back.