Whether a professor or a priest, a lama or a guru, the Hierophant holds and teaches a deep understanding of what he or she considers Truth. In this image, a lotus has completely opened, symbolizing knowledge, awareness and insight - the foundation for beliefs. I imagine for this particular Hierophant, what he sees are the Four Reflections:
• The preciousness of human life.
• The truth of impermanence (change) and the inevitability of death.
• Thoughts, words and actions have consequences (cause and effect).
• A repetitive cycle of suffering caused by a constant search for security.
The Cathedral of Notre Dame was one of the first buildings to use the flying buttress (arched exterior supports) to support thin, high walls and prevent stress cracks common in Gothic architecture. This card suggests that no matter what Truth I hold, I need some type of framework to support it. Though I don't hold to one particular philosophy or religion, I still need a structure of beliefs that give me a sturdy foundation to build on. Otherwise, I'll never get beyond the bare bones of understanding.

