Temperance Tarot Card Meanings

Temperance Upright Meaning

When Temperance appears upright, it's a signal to slow down, breathe deep, and find your center. The angel often seen on this card (sometimes interpreted as the Archangel Michael) pours water between two cups, symbolizing the alchemy of patience, moderation, and spiritual flow. One foot in the water, one on land. Grounded, yet intuitive.

This card is about integrating, not swinging from one extreme to the other. You need to find a rhythm that honors all parts of you. Healing is happening, but it's not a quick fix.

Soften your grip. Trust the timing. Blend wisely.

Temperance Reversed Meaning

When Temperance is reversed, balance is off -- or you're trying to force a situation into harmony before it's ready. Maybe you're overindulging, burning out, or flipping between extremes and calling it "passion."

This reversal can also signal impatience or avoidance of the inner work needed to restore true peace. It's the spiritual equivalent of mixing oil and water and wondering why things feel chaotic.

Temperance reversed just ups the urgency of this card in its upright form. You can't run forever.

Temperance Advice Position

Stop trying to rush the outcome and start tending to the process. Temperance is about conscious blending -- bringing together what seems contradictory to create something new, meaningful, and sustainable.

Stay open to middle paths, creative solutions, and gentle adjustments. Whether it's your health, your emotions, your relationships, or your mindset, balance comes from consistent tending, not from one big breakthrough.

Pour slowly. Breathe deeply. Trust the mix.

Temperance Love Position

In love, Temperance is a sign of harmony through mutual care, emotional regulation, and soul-deep patience. This card encourages compromise, honest communication, and the kind of connection that grows over time, not overnight.

If you're single, Temperance invites you to focus on balance within yourself before seeking it in someone else. It may also hint at a new connection that feels peaceful, healing, and divinely timed.

Already in a relationship? This card asks, "Are you blending your lives in a way that honors both of you, or are you overcorrecting to keep the peace?"

Temperance Career Position

Temperance in your career reading suggests you're being called to take a balanced, steady approach. Don't rush decisions, overwork yourself, or throw everything into one area while ignoring the rest. This is a time for mindful pacing and long-term strategy.

It's also a green light for collaboration, especially if you're working with others who bring a different skill set or perspective. You can't expect yourself to have all the answers. It's all about the blend, remember?

Progress is happening, even if it's not flashy. Stay the course.

Temperance in a Yes or No Card Reading

Temperance is a card of unseen support. If you're looking for simple Yes or No guidance and receive Temperance, the answer is NO. Take a break and allow yourself a moment to breathe.