My Description of Card:
From the Emperor, who looked strong yet compassionate, we go to the High Priest, who appears (to me) stern and deeply serious. The High Priest sits upon a throne, and there is a screen behind the High Priest's head. An eagle appears predominantly in the foreground. In the background are fading mists and the shadows of trees.

Symbolism of the card:

The High Priest:
"...the guardian of the spiritual threshold. He holds the key to the Mysteries, for he is the posessor of occult knowledge." His right hand is raised in benediction. In his left hand he holds vervain, symbolizing protection.

The throne:
Screen - "Presents onlookers with a view of what lies beyond."
Throne arm, Bull - Taurus
Throne arm, Elephant - "strength, wisdom, moderation, pity and eternity."

The foreground and background:
Eagle - "bird of spiritual principle and the spirit of the sun (in Nordic legend, Odin would often appear in the guise of an eagle)."
Pine trees - immortality
Mists - "masks mysterious rituals and rites to which the High Priest holds supreme knowledge."

My interpretation of the card:
I know this card is called the High Priest, but when I look at it I'm reminded more of a Catholic Bishop! Either way, the High Priest has attained spiritual wisdom and knows the "guidelines for leading a spiritual life." He is a great teacher and very knowledgable, and can help us learn what those guidelines are and give us spiritual insight. He is about ritual and tradition.

"Grace, mercy, compassion" and "kindness" are also attributed to this High Priest, but I just can't see it here.

Dana