Temperance Tarot Card Meaning

The Temperance Card - What It Shows

This card shows a winged angel whose gender is hard to tell, suggesting a balance between the sexes. One foot rests in water, representing the subconscious; the other on dry land, representing the material world. On the chest is a square with a triangle inside it, showing the earth's union with the holy trinity. The angel pours water from one cup to another, symbolizing the steady flow of life. Behind, a path leads toward a mountain range - the journey through life itself.

Temperance Upright Meaning

Upright, Temperance tells you to harness your skills and abilities to do what is needed to complete your mission. This could mean using your spiritual power, your wisdom, or a lifestyle change that supports your quest. It is the card of balanced, patient progress - the right things, in the right measure, flowing steadily rather than forced.

Temperance Reversed Meaning

Reversed, Temperance suggests you are almost giving up on yourself. It advises you to take part in activities that make you happy and to rest, so you can gain a better perspective on a bad situation. The balance has tipped; the remedy is restoration, not more effort.

Temperance as Advice

As advice, Temperance counsels moderation and blending: combine your resources thoughtfully, pace yourself, and let patience do part of the work. Steady and balanced beats fast and forced.

Temperance in a Tarot Reading

As a Major Arcana card it points to a significant theme, not a passing detail. Its meaning sharpens against the cards around it, its position, and your question - which is what a live reading interprets for your situation. See all 22 cards on the Major Arcana meanings hub, or start a full phone tarot reading.

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