The Justice card is the eleventh card in the Major Arcana, numbered XI (11), though it is sometimes numbered VIII in some Tarot decks (depending on the deck's structure). This card represents fairness, truth, balance, accountability, and the law of cause and effect. Justice is about seeking harmony through impartiality, making decisions based on fairness, and accepting the consequences of one’s actions. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and the need to balance the scales of life.

General Meaning:

The Justice card often depicts a figure seated on a throne, holding a sword in one hand and scales in the other. The sword symbolizes the power of truth and the ability to cut through illusions, while the scales represent balance, fairness, and impartial judgment. The figure is typically seen as calm, rational, and objective, signifying a person who weighs all sides of an issue before making decisions. The card encourages you to reflect on your actions, take responsibility for your choices, and seek fairness in all areas of life.

Upright Meaning:

• Fairness & Balance: Justice is primarily about fairness, balance, and equilibrium. This card suggests that you may be facing a situation where impartiality and rationality are required. It encourages you to weigh all sides of a situation before making any decisions and to seek fairness in all interactions. The scales symbolize that fairness must prevail, ensuring that all factors are considered in judgment.

• Truth & Accountability: The Justice card calls for truth and accountability. It may indicate a need to be honest with yourself and others. If you've been hiding from the truth or avoiding responsibility, this card urges you to face the facts and accept the consequences of your actions. It emphasizes integrity and personal responsibility in all matters.

• Legal Matters: Justice can also symbolize legal or judicial matters. If you are involved in a legal issue or conflict, this card suggests that fairness will prevail and that the outcome will be based on facts, evidence, and the law. It encourages trust in the legal process and in the idea that justice will be served.

• Cause and Effect: The Justice card is closely tied to the principle of karma and the law of cause and effect. It signifies that actions have consequences, and that the energy you put into the world will return to you. The card reminds you that if you have acted with integrity, fairness, and respect, you will be rewarded; however, if you have acted unjustly, you may face the consequences of your actions.

• Objectivity & Rational Decision-Making: Justice represents rational decision-making and objectivity. When this card appears, it suggests that you should approach a situation with a clear, logical mind, without being swayed by emotions, biases, or personal interests. It asks you to be objective and to make decisions based on facts and evidence.

• Balance in Relationships: In relationships, Justice suggests that balance and fairness are key. If you’ve been giving too much or too little in a relationship, the card may indicate a need for equilibrium. It can also suggest the resolution of conflicts through fair compromise or a legal agreement that benefits all parties involved.

Reversed Meaning:

When the Justice card appears in reverse, it can indicate imbalance, dishonesty, or unfairness. The energy of Justice is distorted when reversed, signaling that something may be out of alignment, either within yourself or in a situation you are facing.

• Dishonesty & Unfairness: The reversed Justice card may indicate dishonesty, injustice, or unethical behavior. You might be facing a situation where something or someone is not being truthful or is acting unfairly. It may be a reminder to examine your own actions or those of others to ensure that integrity and fairness are present.

• Accountability Issues: When reversed, Justice suggests a lack of accountability, where someone (possibly yourself) is avoiding responsibility or not owning up to their actions. It can indicate a refusal to take responsibility for past deeds or a failure to acknowledge the consequences of one’s choices.

• Imbalance & Inequity: The reversed Justice card may point to a lack of balance in your life or relationships. You may feel that you are being treated unfairly or that a situation is skewed or unbalanced. Alternatively, you may be the one causing this imbalance, acting in a way that is self-serving or unjust.

• Karmic Imbalance: Reversed Justice can also point to a disruption of the natural law of karma. It may suggest that actions are not being met with appropriate consequences or that justice is not being served in a situation. It may indicate that unresolved karmic issues or past mistakes are coming back to affect you or others.

• Poor Judgment: When Justice is reversed, it can indicate poor judgment or decisions that are based on bias, favoritism, or emotions rather than logic and fairness. It warns against making hasty decisions without considering all facts or failing to look at the bigger picture. This card urges you to reassess your judgments and approach situations more rationally.

Symbolism:

• The Scales: The scales in the Justice card symbolize balance, fairness, and the need to weigh all sides of a situation. The scales remind you to consider both sides of a matter and to act impartially. They reflect the idea that justice is not about personal bias or preference, but about objective evaluation of facts.

• The Sword: The sword held by Justice represents clarity, truth, and the power to cut through deception. It symbolizes rational decision-making and the ability to see things clearly, even when there may be confusion or emotional bias present. The sword can also indicate the need for decisive action and the willingness to make difficult decisions.

• The Throne: The throne on which the figure sits represents authority and power, suggesting that Justice is a force that commands respect. The throne signifies stability and the firm, unwavering nature of fairness and truth. Justice is not swayed by personal whims but acts from a place of authority and moral strength.

• The Blindfold: In some depictions, the figure of Justice is shown blindfolded, symbolizing impartiality and objectivity. The blindfold represents the idea that justice is not influenced by external appearances, wealth, or status. Justice is blind to these factors and is concerned only with what is right and just.

• The Crown: The crown, sometimes seen on the head of the figure of Justice, represents authority, wisdom, and the law. It signifies the idea that justice is above all, encompassing both human and divine laws. The crown reinforces the connection to truth, integrity, and the power that comes from upholding justice.

• The Pillars: The pillars seen in many Justice cards represent the structure and foundation of the law. They symbolize the pillars of fairness and equality that uphold the concept of justice in society.

In Summary:

The Justice card is a symbol of fairness, balance, truth, and accountability. It encourages you to make decisions based on logic, reason, and impartiality, rather than being swayed by emotions or personal biases. The card emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and the consequences of your actions. It is a reminder that fairness will prevail and that the law of cause and effect is always at work. When reversed, Justice suggests dishonesty, imbalance, or poor judgment, urging you to reassess your actions and make sure that fairness and integrity are present in your decisions. This card can also indicate legal matters or a time when you must accept responsibility for your choices, ensuring that you uphold the values of fairness and truth in your life.