XIV
Temperance
Symbols in the artwork
A figure with wings is pouring water from one golden cup to another. The triangle and square motifs on the chest suggest the harmony of different elements coming together. One foot is in the water, and the other is on the rock. This can be seen as observing reality while feeling one's emotions. The light between the flowers by the water and the mountains, and the continuing path, show a process of gradual adjustment without rushing. The balance that Temperance speaks of does not always mean that everything must be peaceful. It is closer to adjusting the pace and strength to fit my current situation.
Sources and interpretation
Referenced the original Temperance, Management, and Adjustment, alongside modern balance. The reversed original also covers issues like division and competing interests, so it is not simply the opposite of the upright.
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
Temperance and Balance · Harmony of Differences · Patience and Adjustment
Reduce what is excessive and add what is lacking. You can find a pace that suits you.
Core meaning
Temperance symbolizes balancing things so they are neither too much nor too little, and the process of harmoniously mixing different elements. Patience and appropriate adjustment are key, and it does not mean blindly accommodating others.
The water flowing between the two cups suggests gradually adjusting the amount. Balancing does not mean spending the same amount of time on everything. It's okay to focus a little more on work on busy days, and to take more rest on tiring days. As long as you don't keep postponing one side, you can find a life rhythm that suits you.
What to keep in mind
Don't keep setting aside what you want just to maintain a good atmosphere. You must talk about what is difficult, not just what you both want, to be able to adjust together.
One small step today
List out the tasks that are too many and the time that was lacking in today's schedule. Try reducing one task or shifting time by 15 minutes to take care of what is needed.
A question to consider
What do I need more of, and what can I afford to have less of in my current life?
A thought for today
Even small adjustments can help create a rhythm that makes today easier to continue.
Reversed
Excess and Extremes · Imbalance · Broken Harmony
Examine where you are overextending yourself, and reduce it to what you can manage right now.
Core meaning
The reversed Temperance symbolizes a broken balance due to excess, extremes, or incompatible elements. It can also point to judgments and actions that are rushed or heavily skewed, not just feeling tired.
You might be forcing things that are difficult to coordinate. This could be trying to satisfy everyone's opinions, or cramming another task into an already tight schedule. It's okay not to try so hard to endure everything. Separate what can be done independently, and discuss in advance any commitments that are hard to keep. Reducing it to a manageable level is also good adjustment.
What to keep in mind
You don't need to suddenly create many rules just to maintain balance. Start with one small change that is actually sustainable. After trying it, see if it suits you.
One small step today
Choose one commitment that you are overextending yourself on. Think about whether you can reduce the quantity or frequency, or change the date, and discuss it specifically with the relevant person.
A question to consider
Among the things I want to do well all at once, what is difficult to manage together right now?
A thought for today
If your current life feels overwhelming, it's okay to readjust it to suit you.
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.