The Enchanted Initiate
A Journal of Traditional Symbolism, Hermeticism & the Occult Sciences

Temperance

Temperance, symbolized by a female figure pouring liquids from two jars into one, represents the virtue of moderation and self-control, closely related to the concept of balance and patience. This tarot card is subject number 34 in the Mantegna pack and is often depicted in the context of Le Soleil, synthesizing faith and reason. The card is associated with accommodating competing interests and managing things connected with churches, religions, sects, and the priesthood, although it can sometimes denote disunion and unfortunate combinations. Temperance is also seen as the magic of transformations and as an angel pouring the essences of life from chalice to chalice, illustrating the harmonization of psychic and material natures. This virtue symbolizes moderation in divine matters, reflecting its spiritual and practical aspects. While the card can be reversed, it then potentially represents competitive interests rather than the harmonious balance portrayed in its upright position.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

Temperance and Astrology are interconnected concepts, both emphasizing balance and understanding of cyclical patterns, prominently illustrated through symbolism in tarot cards. Specifically, the lunar cycles in Tarot card imagery, such as "La Lune," and the path of "Le Jugement" in the tarot deck, are key examples highlighting this common theme. Both entities focus on the importance of moderation and harmonious balance, aligning with the natural cycles of the universe. This shared principle underscores a holistic approach to life's complexities, drawing parallels between the fluid nature of celestial bodies and human endeavors, whether in seeking personal equilibrium or understanding cosmic influences. Overall, these concepts converge in their exploration of how balance and moderation are essential in navigating both earthly and metaphysical realms.

Temperance and Prudence are two intertwined virtues often depicted in artistic and philosophical contexts. Both entities reflect principles of moderation and wisdom, essential for balanced and thoughtful behavior. In the path of Tarot, Temperance is often associated with the idea of harmony and equilibrium, showing the blend of opposing forces or qualities. Similarly, Prudence involves self-restraint and careful management, making it a virtue that ensures thoughtful and regulated decision-making. This is notably illustrated in the paths of Le Jugement and Le Monde in the Tarot deck, where both virtues work in tandem to guide individuals towards wise and balanced living. Through these representations, the concepts of Temperance and Prudence are united as paths towards moderation and wise management in various life scenarios.

Tarot→Substance

The Tarot includes Temperance representing balance, harmony, and the pursuit of higher states

CosmogonyConcept

Temperance and Cosmogony both involve balance and the understanding of the cosmos, as seen in the path of wisdom in Le Jugement and Le Monde

BalanceRitual

Subject 34, Temperance, symbolizes the virtue of moderation and balance, a key principle in the harmony of the natural world and human society.

Angels→Substance

The ritual of the Temperance card is performed by or related to the order of ministering spirits, the angels, as depicted in the text.

SyndexiaSubstance

Chronology and Temperance both concern the balance and order in the world, reflecting on order and moderation.

Death→Concept

Death and Temperance both involve themes of transformation and change

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

TemperancethroughTarotilluminatesSun →
I. Temperance & Tarot

The Tarot includes Temperance representing balance, harmony, and the pursuit of higher states

II. Tarot & Sun

The Tarot includes The Sun which represents spiritual illumination, truth, and the renewal of life

TemperancethroughAstrologyilluminatesParacelsus →
I. Temperance & Astrology

Temperance and Astrology are interconnected concepts, both emphasizing balance and understanding of cyclical patterns, prominently illustrated through symbolism in tarot cards. Specifically, the lunar cycles in Tarot card imagery, such as "La Lune," and the path of "Le Jugement" in the tarot deck, are key examples highlighting this common theme. Both entities focus on the importance of moderation and harmonious balance, aligning with the natural cycles of the universe. This shared principle underscores a holistic approach to life's complexities, drawing parallels between the fluid nature of celestial bodies and human endeavors, whether in seeking personal equilibrium or understanding cosmic influences. Overall, these concepts converge in their exploration of how balance and moderation are essential in navigating both earthly and metaphysical realms.

II. Astrology & Paracelsus

Paracelsus contributed to practical astrological practices, including the use of talismans

TemperancethroughTarotilluminatesPantacle →
I. Temperance & Tarot

The Tarot includes Temperance representing balance, harmony, and the pursuit of higher states

II. Tarot & Pantacle

The Pantacle, a ritual symbol, is part of the Tarot, which contains kabalistic alphabets and symbols used in magical practices.

TemperancethroughAstrologyilluminatesAlchemy →
I. Temperance & Astrology

Temperance and Astrology are interconnected concepts, both emphasizing balance and understanding of cyclical patterns, prominently illustrated through symbolism in tarot cards. Specifically, the lunar cycles in Tarot card imagery, such as "La Lune," and the path of "Le Jugement" in the tarot deck, are key examples highlighting this common theme. Both entities focus on the importance of moderation and harmonious balance, aligning with the natural cycles of the universe. This shared principle underscores a holistic approach to life's complexities, drawing parallels between the fluid nature of celestial bodies and human endeavors, whether in seeking personal equilibrium or understanding cosmic influences. Overall, these concepts converge in their exploration of how balance and moderation are essential in navigating both earthly and metaphysical realms.

II. Astrology & Alchemy

Both are branches of Hermetic knowledge dealing with the hidden, spiritual aspects of natural phenomena.

TemperancethroughDeathilluminatesSpirit →
I. Temperance & Death

Death and Temperance both involve themes of transformation and change

II. Death & Spirit

Death signifies the end of a Spirit's current life and its transition to another realm or possibly a new life SPIRIT and DEATH are interconnected concepts in this framework, with death signifying the transition of the SPIRIT to another realm. The SPIRIT's experiences and journey through life are seen as preparatory steps for this natural termination of the life cycle. Upon death, the SPIRIT undergoes a transition, moving on to an alternative existence. This comprehensive summary integrates both the classical literature, aligning them into a cohesive narrative that highlights the relationship between SPIRIT and DEATH.

TemperancethroughAstrologyilluminatesKabalah →
I. Temperance & Astrology

Temperance and Astrology are interconnected concepts, both emphasizing balance and understanding of cyclical patterns, prominently illustrated through symbolism in tarot cards. Specifically, the lunar cycles in Tarot card imagery, such as "La Lune," and the path of "Le Jugement" in the tarot deck, are key examples highlighting this common theme. Both entities focus on the importance of moderation and harmonious balance, aligning with the natural cycles of the universe. This shared principle underscores a holistic approach to life's complexities, drawing parallels between the fluid nature of celestial bodies and human endeavors, whether in seeking personal equilibrium or understanding cosmic influences. Overall, these concepts converge in their exploration of how balance and moderation are essential in navigating both earthly and metaphysical realms.

II. Astrology & Kabalah

Astrology and Kabalah are two interrelated fields that share a complex and interconnected knowledge system, as indicated by their derived connections. According to the descriptions, true Astrology is rooted in a unique and universal dogma that is fundamentally tied to Kabalah. This relationship suggests that the principles and practices of Astrology are not independent but rather part of a broader, overarching Kabalistic doctrine. Therefore, in this context, Astrology can be seen as an application or manifestation of Kabalistic wisdom, signifying a deep and integral bond between the two disciplines.

TemperancethroughAstrologyilluminatesPhilosophy →
I. Temperance & Astrology

Temperance and Astrology are interconnected concepts, both emphasizing balance and understanding of cyclical patterns, prominently illustrated through symbolism in tarot cards. Specifically, the lunar cycles in Tarot card imagery, such as "La Lune," and the path of "Le Jugement" in the tarot deck, are key examples highlighting this common theme. Both entities focus on the importance of moderation and harmonious balance, aligning with the natural cycles of the universe. This shared principle underscores a holistic approach to life's complexities, drawing parallels between the fluid nature of celestial bodies and human endeavors, whether in seeking personal equilibrium or understanding cosmic influences. Overall, these concepts converge in their exploration of how balance and moderation are essential in navigating both earthly and metaphysical realms.

II. Astrology & Philosophy

ASTROLOGY and PHILOSOPHY both examine metaphysical and existential inquiries. Astrology specifically centers on the perceived influence of celestial events, such as stars, planets, and the Moon, on human affairs and destiny. This exploration of cosmic patterns and their effects on individual lives is a core aspect of Astrology. On the other hand, Philosophy plays a role in interpreting and providing a deeper understanding of these celestial phenomena, often through systematic reflection, critical analysis, and the application of reasoning to broader questions of existence, knowledge, values, and reality. Both disciplines share an interest in delving beyond the physical world to explore profound and often abstract concepts, making them complementary yet distinct fields of study.

TemperancethroughDeathilluminatesDuad →
I. Temperance & Death

Death and Temperance both involve themes of transformation and change

II. Death & Duad

Death is a symbolic attribute of the Duad, representing the end and cessation

TemperancethroughTarotilluminatesPentagram →
I. Temperance & Tarot

The Tarot includes Temperance representing balance, harmony, and the pursuit of higher states

II. Tarot & Pentagram

Both symbols are used in the same occult practices to achieve different goals, symbolizing the same fundamental principles

TemperancethroughDeathilluminatesAll →
I. Temperance & Death

Death and Temperance both involve themes of transformation and change

II. Death & All

Death is seen as a relative concept within the context of The All, representing a transformation to a new state of existence, rather than an endpoint, reflecting the infinite nature of existence and the ongoing cycle of creation and transformation.