Description:

In patriarchal times, when God became a male figure, the HIGH PRIEST dictated the laws that is mind had reasoned out from older teachings. He is called here the guardian of the gates. He holds the keys to the kingdom in a well gloved hand, but he is too stiff to turn around to find the door. He suppresses any occult secrets he might understand; his lips are sealed. The HIGH PRIEST is the ego-bound pontiff who uses religion as a tool to hold others in bondage.

The HIGH PRIEST carries the crooked staff, now only an ostentatious display; the jewels that adorn him indicate that his service as shepherd is but a theatrical enactment. His service is in peddling dispensations to his Heaven.

Interpreted use:

Listen to the Spirit within yourself. It speaks from the Source for you alone to hear.

Reversed (card received upside down):

Beware the vainglory of outer authority; inner credentials are essential.