Tarot Card Meanings: Temperance

8 Sept

The Temperance Card and Its Connection to the Goddess Isis

Temperance is the fourteenth card in the major arcana or greater secrets of the Tarot. She stands out as a powerful symbol of balance, harmony, and moderation. Often depicted as an angelic figure blending the elements, this card invites us to seek equilibrium in our lives. But what if we delve deeper into its meanings and explore its connections to ancient deities? One such connection lies with the Egyptian goddess Isis, a figure of profound wisdom and nurturing energy.

Understanding the Temperance Card

Temperance represents the alchemical process of blending opposites to create something new and harmonious. It embodies patience, self-control, and the importance of finding middle ground. When this card appears in a reading, it encourages us to practice moderation, to balance our emotions, and integrate different aspects of ourselves.

Symbolism in the Card

The imagery of Temperance often features an angel pouring liquid between two cups, symbolizing the merging of various elements. This act of mixing can be seen as a metaphor for life’s challenges, urging us to find synergy in our experiences rather than succumbing to extremes.

The rainbow in the background signifies hope, and the promise of a brighter future when we achieve this balance. Notice too that she is out in nature, and by the placement of her feet, acts as a bridge between the elements of earth and water.

In the Smith-Waite deck you will see irises growing in the mid-ground of the picture. In the TOT deck you can see a geranium flower, vanilla pod and cardamom bloom. Geranium is calming and uplifting and regularly used by aromatherapists to attain emotional balance. The fragrance of vanilla acts like mother’s milk for soul and gives it nourishment, while Cardamom integrates the left and right sides of the brain and settles energy through the core of the body.

The Goddess Isis: A Symbol of Balance and Healing

Isis, one of the most revered deities in ancient Egyptian mythology, embodies many qualities that resonate with the themes of the Temperance card. Known as the goddess of magic, motherhood, and fertility, Isis represents nurturing and healing. Her ability to bring together the fragmented pieces of life mirrors the message of Temperance: to blend different aspects of ourselves for holistic well-being.

The Connection

1.Healing and Restoration: Temperance shows up after a time of extreme change (she is placed after card number thirteen, the Death card), and she supports us to restore balance in our lives. Like Isis who is known to be a Healer, using her magical powers to mend wounds and restore harmony. This connection underscores the importance of self-care and emotional as well as physical healing.

2. Integration of Dualities: Isis is a goddess of duality—she is both nurturing and fierce, protective and transformative. Similarly, Temperance teaches us to embrace the dualities in our lives, integrating light and shadow for a more complete self.

3. Divine Guidance: The angel in the Temperance card can be seen as a guide, both physical and spiritual, much like Isis, who offers wisdom and support during times of change. Whenever I see her show up for a client, it lets me know that the person before me has been through it, and whether they know it or not, they’ve made it to the other side. This is a key message from Temperance and from Isis “ I am here to help you move from here to there”, along with, “You’ve got this.” Both figures remind us that we are not alone, and request assistance and higher wisdom when navigating life’s challenges.

Wrapping It Up

The Temperance Tarot card, with its emphasis on balance, moderation, and integration, resonates deeply with the essence of the goddess Isis. Both serve as powerful reminders of the importance of harmony in our lives. By embodying the qualities of patience, healing, and duality, we can navigate our journeys with grace and resilience.

As we reflect on the teachings of Temperance and the wisdom of Isis, let us strive to find balance in our own lives, harmonizing our various roles and experiences. In doing so, we not only honour the ancient wisdom of goddess traditions but also cultivate a more centered and fulfilling existence as we go deeper into our own stories through the Tarot.