Temperance
Card XIV of the Major Arcana | Balance, Patience & Moderation
Upright: Balance, patience, moderation, purpose, harmony
Zodiac: Sagittarius
Element: Fire
Reversed: Imbalance, excess, lack of patience, discord
Yes/No: Yes (with patience)
Numerology: 14/5 (change, adaptation)
Card Description
An angel stands with one foot on land and one in water, representing the balance between the material and emotional realms. The angel pours water between two cups, miraculously flowing upward - showing the alchemical mixing of opposites to create something new.
Behind the angel, a path leads to mountains with a glowing crown at the summit - the higher goal that patience and balance will help you reach. Irises bloom nearby, symbolizing hope and valued messages.
Upright Meaning
Temperance calls for balance, moderation, and patience. Blend different aspects of your life harmoniously. Take the middle path. Success comes through steady, measured progress rather than extremes.
- Find balance and moderation
- Practice patience
- Blend different elements harmoniously
- Take the middle path
- Pursue higher purpose
- Heal and recover
Reversed Meaning
Reversed, Temperance indicates imbalance, excess, or impatience. You may be going to extremes, rushing when patience is needed, or different areas of life are in conflict.
- Life out of balance
- Excess and overindulgence
- Impatience and rushing
- Conflicting priorities
- Lack of purpose or direction
- Discord and disharmony
Temperance in Love
Upright: Harmonious relationships built on mutual respect and balance. Good communication flowing between partners. Patience with each other leads to deeper connection. A soulmate connection is possible.
Reversed: Relationship imbalance, one person giving more than receiving, or conflicts that need reconciliation. Find the middle ground and practice patience with your partner.
Temperance in Career
Upright: Work-life balance, patient progress toward goals, and combining different skills harmoniously. A collaborative approach works better than going it alone. Stay the course.
Reversed: Workaholic tendencies, rushing projects, or conflicts between work and personal life. Step back and find balance before burnout occurs.
Sagittarius Connection
Temperance is associated with Sagittarius, the sign of higher learning, philosophy, and the search for meaning. Like Sagittarius, Temperance seeks the bigger picture and aims for distant goals through measured, purposeful action. The path to the mountain peak reflects Sagittarius's quest for higher truth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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