Home / Tarot Cards / Temperance

Temperance tarot card — Rider-Waite
Major Arcana

Temperance

Temperance (XIV) shows an angel pouring water between two golden cups, one foot on land and one in water. It embodies balance, patience, alchemy, and the gentle integration of opposing forces into a harmonious whole.

balancepatiencemoderationpurposeharmonyalchemy

Want Temperance interpreted in your spread?

Upright meaning

Temperance says: mix carefully, proceed gently, and trust the slow alchemy of time. Extremes in any direction are correcting toward balance. Patience now will yield something far better than forcing a quick outcome.

Love & relationships

In love, Temperance is a beautiful card — it signals a relationship built on balance, mutual respect, and the steady alchemy of two people who bring out the best in each other.

Career & finances

Professionally, Temperance asks for a measured, patient approach. Projects that require careful integration of multiple elements will succeed if you resist the urge to rush.

Spiritual guidance

Temperance is the alchemist's card — it speaks of the slow, patient inner work of integrating shadow and light, body and spirit, human and divine into a coherent, luminous whole.

Frequently asked questions

  • What does Temperance mean in tarot?

    Temperance represents balance, patience, and the careful integration of opposing elements. It encourages moderation and a steady, long-term approach.

  • Is Temperance a good card in a relationship reading?

    Yes. Temperance in love signals a healthy, balanced relationship with mutual respect and the capacity to weather challenges together.