Temperance

The Temperance tarot card is the fourteenth card of the Major Arcana and is a card of Sagittarius, a Fire Sign, depicted by the triangle on the angel’s dress. The angel strives for a more enlightened state of being just as a Sagittarius does. The angel’s feet are symbolic of the spiritual journey, similar to the adventurous Sagittarius. The iris flowers are indicative of the Goddess Iris, who travels from one end of the world to the other, just as a Sagittarius would love to.

Represents

The Temperance Tarot represents patience, self-control, creating balance, the middle path, willingness to learn, and, understanding.

Description

In the Rider Waite deck, the Temperance Tarot shows an angel in a white robe (representing purity), with beautiful, red wings (represents blood or life), standing at the edge of a pond with one foot dipped in water (representing the subconscious) and the other on land (representing the material world). This is a reminder to us that our greatest wisdom lies in the art of balancing. She has two golden cups in her hands and is slowly pouring the liquid of one to the other (process of ‘tempering’). On her chest is a triangle placed within a square and on her forehead is a circle (symbol of eternity). Behind her can be seen, a path leading up to two mountains. Iris flower grows next to the angel and the sun (representing life force and hope) can be seen rising above the mountains.

Meaning

When Temperance comes up in a general reading, it cautions you to exercise patience. You may feel that your plans are moving much slower than what you expected but remember that your seeds are in the process of germinating. If you stomp on them now, you will ruin their growth. Be confident in yourself and rely on your inner strength and self-control. It also suggests that you should try and be more forgiving, kind, and, fair; not only with others but even with your own self.

If travel cards appear with this card, start packing your bags. For a person, it can signify someone who is well-balanced, compassionate and at peace with himself.

The Temperance Tarot card meaning changes when the card comes reversed. It suggests that you are simply unable to find any balance in your life. You could end up being quite unhappy or sick if you proceed further like this. Stop making excuses and start working on the changes you need to make for a balanced life.

In a Business Reading

When Temperance comes up in a business reading, it advises you to blend different aspects of yourself in order to move your business /career further. Imagine where you would want to make your business reach in the next three years and work towards it. Remember, that with patience and perseverance, you can accomplish anything you want.

To manage your finance, balance spending money with saving money correctly. For some, the card can also signify that you are successfully managing to balance your financial situation.

In Relationships

When Temperance comes up in a relationship reading, it suggests that this is the right partner for you. But have patience and allow the relationship to unfold in a gradual and peaceful manner. In permanent relationships, Temperance will establish harmony and heal old wounds. It counsels you to avoid ego and power struggles.

When Temperance comes up for singles, it advises you to be patient as love is on the way.

In Health

In a health reading when Temperance comes up, it is a positive card and advises you to stay in moderation. If you have been keeping unwell, you are on your way to recovery. Since this card is related to chemistry and pharmacy, it indicates an open possibility of substance abuse. So, go easy on those painkillers, as recovery is on its way. Those who are keeping good health will remain fit, provided they do everything in moderation.