Today I will discuss the major arcana card XI Justice.
The traditional depiction of Justice shows a calm, somewhat stern woman. Like the High Priestess, she's seated between two pillars; these pillars are named Mercy and Severity. She holds a set of scales, but unlike the American symbol of Lady Justice, she isn't blindfolded. Her eyes are wide open and they see everything.
In her right hand Justice holds up a sword; her judgements come from an incisive intellect which isn't swayed by emotions. The image brings to mind the Queen of Swords; the swords of the tarot represent the element of air, and the workings of a logical, clear-thinking mind. In her left hand are a set of scales representing impartiality, balance, and fairness. Her head is crowned, sometimes with a corona muralis, or mural crown, made to resemble the battlements of a fortress or fortified city. Tutelary deities and rulers of cities were depicted wearing such a crown in ancient times.
This card represents integrity, the impartial fairness of karma, cause and effect, and consequences. It can represent the outcome of an actual legal case; the resolution of which will be just and fair, though not necessarily the one hoped for. Whatever the situation or challenge facing the querent, Justice urges setting aside emotions when formulating a plan of action. There are times when your logic must overrule or simply ignore your emotions when seeking the best possible outcome, and this is one of those times.
Justice is a reminder that our present reflects the effects of past words and actions. And that things we say or do today can impact our future. Justice demands that we speak and act with honesty and integrity towards others as well as remaining true to oneself.
Reversed, Justice can indicate serious imbalances in your life and thinking. It can represent overly emotional responses to stressors, which in turn exacerbates stress. It can indicate dishonesty or unfairness with oneself and others; alternatively, the dishonesty or unfairness may be that of another person which is negatively affecting you. Depending on the focus of the reading Justice reversed can warn of legal affairs or court cases being delayed or unfairly decided against you.
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Thank you for reading. This is an open thread, all topics are welcome.