Tarot Card Interpretation & Meaning - (14) Temperance Reversed
Introduction: As in the upright meaning, reversed Temperance is a card about balance and relationships of all kinds. Friendships, family, romantic partnerships, and work partnerships all need your particular attention and nourishment when you see this card. In reversal, we are encouraged even more strongly to experiment in various areas in our lives. You may have to try several approaches to things before you find what is truly right for you.
General: Even when reversed, all your relationships are likely to be going quite well, generally speaking. You may have been receiving (and possibly ignoring) some constructive criticism which actually could be quite helpful to you. Look at your deeper personal “issues” and see if or how these are standing in your way - and if they are, how to work through them and integrate them. The idea now is to do what it takes to find balance - in yourself, in your relationships, and with your goals and aspirations. If you need help to do this, ask for it!
Work: Especially when this card appears in reversal, this is not a time to be a lone wolf . You need to be seen as a team player and you need to work well with others, even if your work is almost without exception performed as an individual. No matter what things look like on the surface now, know that your accomplishments will not be overlooked.
Love: When Temperance appears reversed, it is important to look at how you – and your relationships – are or are not in balance. It’s a good time to consider what others are bringing to your life, and vice versa. You may feel that you are giving 300% to a relationship while your partner is not even giving 100%; but be aware that your partner may see things the other way around! If you are looking for love, and Temperance reversed appears, you may well be trying too hard and thus alienating people. Be secure in yourself as an individual, first. A lover will not and cannot “complete you.”
Finances: When Temperance is reversed, there is still most likely to be a good balance between what is going out and what is coming in money-wise. However, you must not simply sit back and expect the world to suddenly pay you what you are worth and what you deserve. Have the courage to ask for what you need and your money flow will increase.
Health: Even reversed, this card reminds us that balance and moderation is key to a healthy, fulfilling life. We must consider whether we are eating well, sleeping well, playing and working enough and/or getting enough exercise? If you have health challenges when this card appears, something almost certainly is out of balance in these areas. It’s time to consider what this might be and make a change.
Spirituality: With reversed Temperance, the indication is that you may benefit immensely by seeking partners as you’re on your path toward spiritual growth. This doesn't necessarily mean that you need to regularly attend a church of your choosing, but this is one way to meet this need. Whether it is in person, through reading spiritually oriented books, or in other ways, it’s important that you constantly are renewing your spiritual “well.” Don’t try to fill it all on your own. Make time for relaxation.