XI
Justice
Symbols in the artwork
The figure facing forward holds a straight sword in one hand and scales in the other. The sword suggests a decisive attitude, while the scales suggest examining both sides of a matter and the impact of choices. The space between the two pillars can be read as a place to look at a situation with the same standard. This image does not determine who is at fault or what the legal outcome will be. View it as a symbol for examining what actually happened and the responsibility you will bear.
Sources and interpretation
Referenced the original concepts of fairness, honesty, law, and the reversed aspects of prejudice and excessive strictness. Also reflected modern interpretations regarding responsibility for outcomes and evasion of responsibility.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · A. E. Waite's symbolism · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Justice and fairness · Consequences of actions · Truth and responsibility
Before drawing a conclusion based on feeling, examine the facts using the same criteria.
Core meaning
Justice symbolizes fair judgment, truth, and the consequences and responsibilities of one's actions. The focus is on applying the same standard to all parties, rather than reaching a conclusion favorable only to oneself.
The scales in the picture suggest an attitude of examining both sides, and the sword evokes the power to make a decision after deep consideration. If you are exhausted from endless comparison, make sure to check what you absolutely need to know. Clearly define the promises you must keep and the responsibilities you must bear, but it is okay not to take on everything that belongs to others.
What to keep in mind
Even with the intention of being fair, not everyone must follow your way. Even if the promise is kept, everyone's circumstances can be different. Do not state the other person's feelings as fact if you have not confirmed them.
One small step today
Write down three facts you have directly confirmed from one decision, and one thing you value highly. Also, check if there is anything else that needs to be investigated.
A question to consider
Am I keeping the same promises to others that I expect from them? Am I applying the same standard to the choices I want?
A thought for today
Knowing the confirmed facts and your responsibilities allows you to make a decision more calmly.
Reversed
Injustice and prejudice · Dishonesty · Evasion of responsibility
If a conclusion has already been set, examine the facts that contradict that conclusion as well.
Core meaning
Justice reversed symbolizes injustice, prejudice, dishonesty, or evading responsibility. It can cover situations where an unfair judgment is passed on someone, or when you refuse to accept a result.
This card does not mean you will receive punishment or experience something unjust. Rather than quickly deciding who is at fault, look for facts that have not yet been confirmed and areas that need to be discussed again. If you learn new facts, it is okay to change your mind. Judging according to the facts known now can be fairer than sticking to the initial conclusion.
What to keep in mind
A reversed card does not mean someone is lying. Share the uncomfortable feelings and the actual events. Even if you admit your responsibility, you do not have to bear everything alone.
One small step today
Choose one instance where you felt it was unfair, and write down the actual event, your thoughts, and what you want to change, one line each.
A question to consider
Are there any facts overlooked or stories unheard while judging?
A thought for today
Revisiting each other's circumstances can help find a fairer way.
Tarot offers a way to reflect on yourself through its symbols. Read it as a point of reference, not a certain prediction of the future or another person's feelings.