Temperance
Temperance highlights the importance of moderation and patience. Explore its wisdom below.
Temperance Tarot Card Description
"This angel comes to us to bring a softening of our ridges." Mary Elizabeth Evans, referenced in The Library of Esoterica Tarot
Temperance is a card that many feel calm when seeing it. It presents itself to us as an angel-like figure pouring liquid between two vessels, with one foot immersed in water, the other on dry land. Temperance represents the art of finding balance and harmony. The different colored chalices, one red and the other blue (in the case of the Marseilles Tarot deck) symbolize the blending of opposites, such as fire and water. This imagery can guide us to reflect on our actions and try to be more balanced and open-hearted.
Key Takeaways
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The Temperance card symbolizes balance, moderation, and harmony
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Reversed, Temperance signals imbalance and impulsiveness.
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It is associated with Sagittarius, fire elements, and crystals like blue topaz and lapis lazuli.
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In career readings, the Temperance card implies finding work-life balance, being patient in job searches, and avoiding overcommitment.
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In love readings, Temperance tarot card emphasizes moderation and understanding, encouraging a balanced approach to relationships and avoiding emotional extremes.
Qualities
- Upright: Balance, moderation, harmony, patience, healing
- Reversed: Imbalance, extremes, disharmony, impulsiveness
Celestial Influence
- Planet/Zodiac: Sagittarius
- Card Number and Arcana: XIV (Major Arcana Card)
- Element: Fire
- Crystal: Blue topaz and lapis lazuli
Try meditating on the Temperance card while holding blue topaz or lapis lazuli to access the fiery Sagittarius energy of this card.
Upright Temperance Card Meaning
Career
When it comes to work-life, Temperance is a kind reminder to be patient and measured in our current pursuits and future opportunities. Here are some additional interpretations below:
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Looking for work: If you’re currently looking for work, try to be patient. Job searches can be incredibly challenging, emotionally and financially. Temperance gently encourages you to think of the big picture and trust that the right opportunity will come along. Try to hold space for both the hard parts of your search and the amazing qualities and skillset you will bring to your next endeavor.
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Currently working: For those already working, Temperance reminds you to find harmony between your professional and personal life. Try to avoid overcommitting or neglecting your well-being in pursuit of career goals. You bring more to the table than your contributions at work; embrace your beautifully multifaceted nature.
Love
Temperance encourages moderation and understanding in all matters of the heart. Whether you're seeking love or nurturing an existing relationship, strive for balance in communication and emotional expression. Avoid rushing into intense emotions or withdrawing completely. Instead, foster a harmonious connection based on mutual respect and compromise.
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Looking for love: If you are single and seeking love, Temperance advises patience and mindful reflection. Avoid rushing into relationships out of loneliness or fear of being alone (we’ve all been there!). Trust that true love will come when you are ready to embrace it fully. Meanwhile, try to focus on nurturing a strong sense of self by pursuing activities and connections that bring you joy and fulfillment.
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In love: Temperance reminds those in committed relationships to nurture the partnership with patience and understanding. Avoid allowing conflicts or differences to escalate into chaos. You can deepen your connection and strengthen your bond by approaching conflict with curiosity and openness.
Reversed Temperance Card Meaning
Career
Temperance reversed warns us against extremes or rushing important decisions. Instead, try recenter yourself first by mindfully sitting with any stress or discomfort that comes up in the workplace. Here are some additional interpretations for you to consider:
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Looking for work: If you are looking for work, you may need to slow down and approach the job search with more patience (we know how hard that can be!). If possible, try to avoid jumping into any opportunities that may not align with your long-term goals or values. Trust your gut.
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Currently working: If you are feeling confident in the job department, Temperance gently reminds you of the dangers of escaping reality through your work. Where possible, take steps to realign your priorities and establish healthy boundaries to restore balance and prevent burnout. Your relationships outside of work may need some TLC!
Love
In a love tarot reading, the reversed Temperance card warns of disharmony and conflict stemming from emotional extremes. We get it, love isn’t always easy. Here are some reflections that can support you through this process:
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Looking for love: If you are searching for love, you may be putting too much pressure on yourself or potential partners to tick off every box or meet all of your needs. Get curious about where this tendency may be coming from. What underlying fears or insecurities might be driving your actions? By filling up your own cup first, you can attract a more secure and fulfilling relationship.
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In love: For those already in a relationship, you might be experiencing more conflict than usual. For some reason, you and your partner can’t see eye to eye, even on the small things like what to order for dinner. During this time, try to communicate your needs while holding space for theirs. Being different is often what makes the dynamic more rich and fulfilling.
Departing Wisdom from Temperance
Temperance gently nudges us towards a more balanced and moderate approach to life. Through patience and self-awareness, you will discover how resilient you truly are. When you can hold space for discomfort, you can mindfully choose the best course of action.
Mantra: I am here to gently guide you to find the peace, inner harmony, and balance you deserve.
References
The Way of Tarot | Alejandro Jodorowsky, Archive.org
The Marseille Tarot Revealed A Complete Guide to Symbolism, Meanings & Methods | Yoav Ben-Dov
The Pictorial Key to the Tarot | Arthur Edward Waite
Disclaimer
The contents of this article are provided for informational purposes only. Take what resonates with you and leave behind anything that doesn't. Anahana is not liable for any interpretations, insights, or outcomes that may arise from using the information provided.
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