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Tarot Card Meanings:
Temperance

Temperance: Overview and Symbols

Temperance is card number fourteen in the Major Arcana. It depicts an angel blending water between two cups, symbolizing the integration of opposites and the synthesis of diverse elements into a cohesive whole. This card encourages patience, self-control, and the pursuit of equilibrium in one’s life, suggesting that by finding the middle path and blending different aspects thoughtfully, one can achieve a state of peace and tranquility.

Some Specific Symbols and Their Meanings in the Rider Waite Smith Tarot:

  • Winged angel with one foot in water, one foot on land: Represents the angelic realm and the pursuit of a higher path, and the balance of the physical and spiritual realms.
  • Pouring water between two cups: Signifies the flow and balance of life forces and the blending of opposites.
  • Triangle inside a square on the robe: Indicates the harmony of spirit within the material world.
  • Path leading to a golden crown: Represents the pursuit of higher consciousness and spiritual fulfillment.
  • Irises and lilies: Symbolize purity and peace.
temperance from the rider waite smith tarot
Temperance as depicted in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot by A.E. White, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith

Temperance: Tarot Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Balance,  moderation, harmony, patience, integration, self-control, blending opposites, spiritual fulfillment

Temperance signifies the importance of balance and moderation in all aspects of life. It encourages the harmonious blending of different elements and the integration of opposites to achieve a cohesive whole. This card suggests the need for patience, self-control, and the pursuit of equilibrium. By finding the middle path and thoughtfully combining diverse aspects, one can attain peace, tranquility, and spiritual fulfillment. Temperance invites us to stay grounded while embracing a balanced approach to life’s challenges and opportunities.

Temperance: Reversed Tarot Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Imbalance, excess, disharmony, impatience, lack of self-control, overindulgence, conflict, disarray

When Temperance appears reversed in a tarot reading, it indicates a state of imbalance and disharmony. It suggests that one might be experiencing excess, overindulgence, or a lack of moderation in certain areas of life. This card warns against impatience and urges the need for self-control and restraint. The reversed Temperance card highlights conflicts and disarray, signaling that the integration of different aspects is currently disrupted. It serves as a reminder to seek balance and restore harmony by addressing areas of excess and finding a more moderate, measured approach to life.

Gallery: Temperance in Various Tarot Decks

A photo of the Temperance card from The Linestrider Tarot
Temperance from Linestrider Tarot by Siolo Thompson