Major Arcana · XIV
Temperance
Explore angelic alchemical traditions for inner balance and spiritual harmony
Related Legend
Temperance draws from the classical virtue of moderation and the alchemical tradition of transformation. In Greek mythology, it connects to Iris, the rainbow goddess who served as a messenger between gods and mortals, symbolizing the bridge between different realms. The card also reflects the Christian virtue of temperance, one of the four cardinal virtues, representing self-restraint and moderation. In alchemical traditions, Temperance represents the process of combining opposing elements to create something new and balanced, much like the mixing of fire and water to create steam.
Upright
Upright Meaning: Balance & Harmony
General Meaning
Temperance upright represents balance, moderation, and patience. This card suggests that you are learning to bring balance to your life and are taking a moderate approach to situations. You have found the right combination of elements in your life, and you are working harmoniously with others and with your environment.
Love & Relationships
In relationships, Temperance indicates harmony and balance. You and your partner are working together to create a stable, loving relationship. For singles, this card suggests taking a patient approach to love and not rushing into anything. Balance is key in all romantic endeavors.
Career & Finance
Career-wise, Temperance suggests a balanced approach to work. You may be successfully combining different skills or working well in a team environment. This is a time for patience and steady progress rather than dramatic changes or aggressive moves. Financially, Temperance suggests a balanced and moderate approach to money. You are likely managing your resources well and finding the right balance between saving and spending. Avoid extremes in financial decisions.
Health & Spirituality
Health-wise, Temperance indicates good balance and moderation in your lifestyle. You may be successfully combining different healing approaches or finding the right balance between work and rest. This is an excellent time for holistic healing approaches.
Reversed
Reversed Meaning: Imbalance & Excess
General Meaning
Temperance reversed indicates imbalance, excess, or lack of moderation. You may be going to extremes or struggling to find the right balance in your life. There might be a lack of patience or harmony in your current situation.
Love & Relationships
In relationships, you may be experiencing imbalance or lack of harmony. One partner might be giving too much while the other takes too much. There could be conflicts due to different values or approaches to life. Communication and compromise are needed.
Career & Personal Growth
At work, you may be experiencing conflicts or imbalance. You might be working too hard or not hard enough, or there could be discord in team relationships. You may need to reassess your approach and find better balance.
Action Advice
- • Stop meaningless waiting, take proactive action
- • Re-evaluate whether your sacrifices are worthwhile
- • Avoid falling into victim mentality
- • Seek professional help or advice
- • Break free from self-imposed limitations
- • Focus on what you can control and change
Symbolism
Symbolism: Deep Symbol Interpretation
Visual Elements
- • Angel: The angel represents divine guidance and the higher self overseeing the process of balance
- • Water Pouring: The pouring of water between cups symbolizes the flow and balance of emotions and energies
- • One Foot on Land: One foot on land represents being grounded in the material world
- • One Foot in Water: One foot in water represents connection to the emotional and spiritual realms
- • Triangle: The triangle on the angel's chest represents the harmony of mind, body, and spirit
- • Iris Flowers: The iris flowers represent the rainbow bridge between earth and heaven
Correspondences
- • Chakra: Heart Chakra - Related to love, balance, and emotional harmony
- • Element: Fire - Represents passion, energy, and transformation
- • Planet: Jupiter - Symbolizes expansion, wisdom, and spiritual growth
- • Zodiac: Sagittarius - Represents adventure, philosophy, and higher learning
- • Numerology: 14 - Represents balance, harmony, and the integration of opposites
Advice
Practical Advice: How to Use Temperance Energy
Moderation & Balance
Practice moderation in all aspects of your life to achieve lasting balance
Patient Waiting
Be patient and allow natural processes to unfold in their own time
Harmony & Unity
Seek harmony between opposing forces rather than choosing extremes
Integration & Synthesis
Work to integrate different aspects of yourself and your life
Cooperation & Collaboration
Collaborate with others to achieve mutual goals and understanding
Daily Practice
Daily Life Applications
At Work
- • Take breaks to reflect before making important decisions
- • Practice patience during project delays or setbacks
- • Look for alternative solutions when facing obstacles
- • Accept constructive criticism as growth opportunities
- • Volunteer for challenging assignments that require sacrifice
In Relationships
- • Practice active listening without trying to fix everything
- • Allow space for your partner's growth and changes
- • Make compromises that benefit the relationship
- • Take time apart when needed for self-reflection
- • See conflicts as opportunities for deeper understanding
Personal Growth
- • Start a daily meditation or mindfulness practice
- • Keep a journal to track insights and patterns
- • Practice gratitude even during difficult times
- • Embrace uncertainty as part of life's journey
- • Seek wisdom from mentors and spiritual teachers
Tarot Reading
Want a Professional Tarot Reading?
Experience AI-powered tarot reading for deep insights into love, career, and wealth.
Related Cards
Related Tarot Cards
The High Priestess
Intuition and inner wisdom
Strength
Inner strength and self-control
Justice
Balance and fairness
The World
Completion and harmony
These tarot cards share similar themes of spiritual exploration and inner growth with The Hanged Man, recommended for study together.