Temperance — full meaning

The Picture

In the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith card for Temperance, the scene is set in a landscape that symbolizes both earth and water. At the center of the image stands a figure dressed in a blue gown, often interpreted as the Virgin Mary or an angel. She is performing a symbolic act of blending by pouring liquid from one chalice into another. This action represents the concept of balance and transformation through harmony.

Three key symbols in this card include:
– The Chalices: These represent the spiritual realm, emotions, and the feminine aspect.
– Water: Water symbolizes fluidity, change, and the merging of elements.
– Blending Action: The act of pouring water from one chalice to another signifies the mixing and harmonizing of different aspects.

Upright Meaning

When Temperance appears upright in a reading, it suggests an emphasis on balance and moderation. This card often indicates that a situation requires finding harmony between opposing forces or elements. Whether in love or work, it encourages us to maintain equilibrium by being mindful and aware of the delicate interplay between different aspects.

In love, Temperance symbolizes a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding. It suggests that both partners are willing to meet halfway and compromise for the greater good of their union. This card often indicates a deep sense of partnership where emotions, desires, and practical considerations blend seamlessly, leading to a fulfilling connection.

In work, Temperance signifies a balanced approach to professional endeavors. It may indicate the need to find harmony between creative passion and practicality. Whether in career development or project management, this card suggests that success comes from maintaining a balanced perspective where innovation meets sound judgment.

Reversed Meaning

When Temperance is reversed, it indicates imbalance and potential excess. This position suggests that there might be too much of one thing at the expense of another. It can point to situations where harmony has been disrupted, leading to conflict or frustration.

In internal reversals, this card may suggest that personal values are being compromised in favor of external pressures. For example, an individual might prioritize work over health, leading to burnout and emotional strain. Alternatively, it could indicate a struggle with self-control and moderation, such as indulging excessively in one’s vices.

In external reversals, the message is about the imbalance present in relationships or social dynamics. This card can suggest that others are causing imbalances, either through overbearing behavior or neglecting important aspects of their lives. It may indicate conflicts arising from a failure to see things from multiple perspectives and finding common ground.

In a Spread with Neighbours

The positioning of Temperance within a spread often changes its meaning based on the context it provides.

• Past Position: If Temperance is in the Past, it suggests that past choices or circumstances were balanced but may have led to some unresolved issues. This card might hint at a need for reassessment and finding new ways to balance these aspects moving forward.
• Present Position: In the Present position, Temperance indicates that you are currently navigating a situation with care and moderation. It suggests that you are conscious of the interplay between different elements in your life, allowing for a more harmonious outcome.
• Future Position: When looking at the Future, Temperance points to potential success if you continue to maintain balance. It might suggest upcoming opportunities where harmony will play a key role in achieving positive outcomes.

A Meditation

Tonight, take a few moments to visualize yourself standing within the borders of your own life, much like the figure in the Temperance card is centered amidst her environment. Close your eyes and imagine the scene from the card: the chalices, the water, and the act of blending.

Begin by taking deep breaths, inhaling peace and exhaling tension. As you do this, picture yourself pouring a liquid (perhaps it’s water or a metaphorical substance) from one aspect of your life into another—perhaps from your professional life to your personal life, or from past experiences to future aspirations. Feel the act of blending, the coming together of these different elements.

Notice any areas in your life where you might be experiencing imbalance, whether in relationships, work, health, or anything else that feels off-kilter. Now, visualize yourself gently pouring this substance into a balanced state. Allow yourself to feel the sense of harmony and equilibrium as you do so.

Take one final deep breath, inhale the essence of balance, and exhale any remaining tension. Open your eyes feeling refreshed and reminded of the importance of balance in all aspects of life.