With restraint and accuracy, the angel of Temperance stands balanced with one foot on earth (real life) and the other in the water (the unconscious), and properly mixes the contents of her two cups.
Temperance is not about abstinence, but about careful combination.
The distant road represents return to the outer world. Along this road, two mountains replace the two pillars from Death, and earlier cards Justice, The Hierophant, and The High Priestess. This shows that abstract ideas are becoming reality.
Temperance is about behaviour, not concepts.
The angel of Temperance promises improvements in one's character and outlook over time, provided there is self restraint and moderation, in action and opinion. The angel provides an example of this - she tempers, or modifies and refines, one's lead into gold.
The angel does not go to extremes as this is unnecessary. Rather than rigid abstinence or self denial, artificial inhibition according to a moral code, she instead displays a true and proper response to each situation as it arises.
This card appearing alongside others will modify their significance and always for the better.
upright: - temperance
- moderation, avoidance of excess
- reconciliation
- frugality
- discipline
- harmony
- economy
- rewards commensurate with effort
- fruitfulness
- vitality
- a good sense of timing
- taking action only when appropriate
- good use of skills
- combination, compatibility
- good management
- consideration of pros and cons
- patience
- accommodation
- reflection
- friendship
reversed: - lack of moderation
- acting before thinking
- too much too soon
- inability to work with others when necessary
- overreaction.