Introduction

The tumult and turmoil of the Wheel of Fortune are past, and we are now within the influence of the Justice card. The word “justice” comes from the Roman “Iustitia”, the Goddess of Justice. Iustitia is a familiar figure, especially in sculpture as she stands at the entrance to many a court of law throughout the world. She holds a balanced scale, a sword and sometimes wears a blindfold to indicate her impartiality.

When Justice turns up in a tarot reading, you can be sure that your situation is being scrutinized by Iustitia – and the outcome, while perhaps not the one you were hoping for, will be fair.

Stories

A predecessor of Iustitia is thought to be Themis, a Greek Titaness, who like Fortuna (see the Wheel of Fortune), was also an oracle, this time at Delphi. Themis was more concerned with the divine law than the lowly dealings of people, although she was supposedly pretty good at organizing shindigs. One of her jobs was overseer of: “communal affairs of humans, particularly assemblies”.

Themis could also foresee the future, hence her oracle status. If the recipients ignored her advice, then they could expect Nemesis to unleash her wrath upon them. Most people did what Themis told them to – a little like a court of law.

Although the path of Justice may lead from Themis, they are not connected in any way. Themis was a mythological figure, whereas Iustitia was a Roman invention purely for the purpose of representing the concepts of justice and law.

General Meanings

The Justice card represents fairness and truth. Your deeds and doings, thoughts and actions will be weighed and assessed, and the outcome decided accordingly. As the saying goes, “There’s no hiding from the law.” Often, depending on the position of the card and others surrounding it, Justice indicates contracts, divorce or legal proceedings of any kind. It could come up in a reading about a new business or job. It may appear in a relationship reading as a reminder to be clear on such practical matters as property ownership, in case of later disputes.

Justice is a reminder for you to maintain a balanced and neutral outlook; to put aside prejudice, opinion, and partiality to come to the best decision.

As an outcome card, it means that circumstances turn in your favor. You win the wrangle, the argument or the court case.

Imagery

Justice is commonly depicted as a crowned woman sitting between two stone columns.  On her crown is etched a square, indicating a connection to the Emperor – organization, stability, and order. She holds a double-edged sword in her right hand, signifying that justice works both ways. The sword points upwards as if in victory. In her left hand is a perfectly balanced scale reminding us that the law is fair. She is often blindfolded to show that the law is always objective. She wears red robes; a white shoe peeks beneath them, and the backdrop is a drape of purple, the color of compassion.

Interpretations in Various Areas of Life

Work

You may be involved in a job that requires a great deal of paperwork related to contracts, invoicing, etc., perhaps within the legal system or other establishments such as the police or government agency. Think rules and regulations, negotiation, mediation, and enforcement. If you have a new job offer, you will be required to sign legal documents. Depending on the position, Justice could indicate a termination of employment or an upcoming legal battle. If starting a business, the appearance of Justice tells you to ensure all agreements are fair and watertight.

In a more spiritual reading, this cards reminds you to find the right balance between work and other aspects of life, such as family, recreation, and general downtime.

Love

Marriage, prenups, legal separation, divorce, settlements, arrangements for the care of children of a marriage – all these things and more. Not very romantic but nevertheless, they are features of relationships in today’s society. If you are getting married, don’t forget the nitty-gritty practicality of arranging your financial and property affairs before you tie the knot. You probably don’t see divorce in your future, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Once it’s all sorted out, you can forget it and go on to enjoy your new life together.

Justice can also point towards property purchase or other joint venture that requires legal papers to be signed.

Finances

Justice is usually favorable when connected to finances. It could represent share dealings, company business or an inheritance. Make sure you balance your checkbook and stick to your budget. If Justice is reversed, beware of outstanding debt.

Health

When Justice appears in a health reading, it’s possible that there could be a health insurance claim ahead. There may be the prospect of surgery or other procedure. If it’s none of these, then ensure that your life is in balance, i.e. enough exercise, good nutrition and the right amount of sleep. Don’t let bad habits get out of control – that includes addiction to exercise, not eating enough or spending too much time online.

Spirituality

Justice is a reminder to keep all things in equilibrium. Your spirit needs attending to as well as your body, work, and relationships. Take time out, walk in nature, breathe fresh air and practice being in the present moment. Make room for moments of peacefulness in a busy day. You may need to reassess where your life could be out of balance and make adjustments accordingly. Justice is a grounded entity; follow her example.