Illustration by Pamela Colman Smith, 1910. Public domain in the US since 1966 and in the UK since 2021. Vector digitisation of the Rider–Waite–Smith deck by OpenClipart contributor "klaatu-tarot", released public domain.
Temperance
Balance, Moderation, and Alchemy
The middle path as active work: the patient inner alchemy that blends opposites and refuses extremes.
Temperance is the serene art of synthesis. It depicts an angelic figure blending water between two chalices, symbolizing the continuous flow and integration of opposing forces—conscious and unconscious, action and rest, material and spiritual. This card calls for patience and moderation, urging us to find the middle path and avoid extremes. It represents the inner alchemy that occurs when we harmoniously integrate different aspects of our lives and selves, leading to profound peace, healing, and holistic well-being.
Light
Finding balance, moderation, harmonizing opposites, inner peace and healing.
Shadow
Imbalance, extremes, inner conflict, lack of harmony, impulsive or reckless behavior.
