Balancing Acts
At the end of every life, there things that need to be balanced out. Voids to be filled, debts to pay.
The angel of Temperance comes to perform this role. To harmonize, to balance, and blend. One cup into the other. What you have poured out, will be what you receive. In the end, nothing you have ever done is wasted.
So I ask you: Have you given as much as you have taken? Have you received as much as you have given?
What is Temperance?
Temperance is the card of moderation, balance, and integration. It is the space between extremes, the art of alchemy—turning opposites into something whole.
This is divine balance, knowing when to give, when to receive, and when to let be.
Transformation happens in the steady, deliberate merging of all that we are.
Symbolism
- The Angel – Divine guidance, balance between the material and spiritual world.
- The Two Cups – The blending of different elements, emotions, or aspects of life.
- One Foot on Land, One in Water – The harmony between intuition and logic, grounding and flow.
- The Path Leading to the Sun – A journey of patience and self-discovery, where balance leads to enlightenment.
Element: Fire
Despite its calm nature, Temperance is ruled by Fire—not the fire of destruction but of transformation and illumination. It is the gentle flame that warms rather than burns.
Associated Astrology: Sagittarius
Sagittarius, the seeker of truth and wisdom, embodies Temperance. It is a sign of exploration, expansion, and understanding the bigger picture, much like this card urges us to do.
Numerology: 14
The number 14 reduces to 5, the number of change and growth. Temperance is about mindful, measured change—transformation that happens at the right pace, neither rushed nor delayed.
“Balance is not something you find; it’s something you create.”
— Jana Kingsford
Upright Meanings
In its upright position, Temperance may indicate that there is balance. Patience in love, career, finances, or health. Trust the process and take a steady, measured approach for long-term success and well-being.
General Meaning
Temperance calls for patience and balance. Instead of extremes, seek the middle path. Blend opposites, find harmony, and trust that everything is unfolding in its perfect time.
Love
A relationship built on mutual understanding, patience, and emotional balance. This is a time of healing and finding common ground.
Career
A steady, long-term approach to success. Avoid impulsive actions and instead, work toward integration and cooperation in your professional life.
Finances
Balanced financial decisions, careful planning, and avoiding excess spending or extreme saving. Moderation is key.
Health
Healing through balance—whether through diet, exercise, or emotional well-being. Listen to your body’s needs and avoid extremes.
Reversed Meanings
Reversed, Temperance warns against imbalance or impatience. In love, work, or health, extremes—whether overindulgence or neglect. Reassess and bring things back into balance before burnout or frustration set in.
General Meaning
A lack of balance, impatience, or resistance to blending opposing forces. This can indicate burnout, excess, or disharmony in your life.
Love
Tension in relationships due to miscommunication or lack of compromise. One partner may be giving too much while the other takes.
Career
Imbalance at work—either overworking or lack of direction. Be mindful of extremes and seek a more measured approach.
Finances
Poor financial decisions, either reckless spending or extreme frugality. It’s time to reassess and find balance.
Health
Ignoring your body’s needs—either through overindulgence or excessive restriction. Find a middle ground for sustainable health.
What Does Temperance Teach Us?
Temperance reminds us that life is a constant dance between extremes. It is not about choosing one path over another but about blending, integrating, and harmonizing all aspects of ourselves.
So, where in your life do you need to slow down, find balance, and trust the process?
