Justice tarot card — Rider–Waite

Justice

Major
Element
Air
Zodiac
Libra
Number
11

Justice shows a figure holding a sword and scales, seated between two pillars. This card stands for fairness, truth, and the natural consequences of your choices. When Justice appears, it’s time to look honestly at your situation and be accountable for your actions. The card encourages you to act with integrity, weigh decisions carefully, and make sure your choices reflect your true values. Justice promises that balance and clarity will return, especially if you’ve been feeling lost or wronged. It’s also a reminder that your words and actions matter, and that fairness—toward yourself and others—brings peace in the end.

Justice — General meaning

Upright meaning

Upright, Justice is about truth, cause and effect, and taking responsibility for your actions. This card shows up when it’s important to be honest with yourself and others, and to accept the results of your decisions. Justice calls for clear thinking, fair treatment, and seeing all sides before making a choice. If you’re in a situation where something feels unfair, Justice brings reassurance that balance will return. It’s also a reminder to keep your promises and act with integrity. When you own your truth and make thoughtful choices, you invite fairness, harmony, and peace into your life.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, Justice points to imbalance, dishonesty, or a feeling that things are not fair. You may be avoiding responsibility, blaming others, or experiencing consequences that don’t seem to fit your actions. Sometimes this card shows up when you’re not being truthful with yourself or letting past mistakes define you. The message is to look honestly at where things are out of balance and take steps to make things right. Healing comes from owning your actions, apologizing where needed, and letting go of judgment. Remember, restoring balance starts with small, honest changes and a willingness to face the truth.

Upright keywords: Fairness, Truth, Balance, Accountability, Clarity

Reversed keywords: Imbalance, Dishonesty, Injustice, Avoidance, Judgment

Justice — Love meaning

Upright meaning

In love, Justice upright highlights the need for balance, fairness, and honesty in relationships. If you’re single, this card suggests taking time to reflect on what you truly want and deserve. For couples, it’s a good time to talk openly about expectations, boundaries, and shared responsibilities. Justice can signal a need to resolve disagreements or make big decisions together. Sometimes this card points to legal matters like marriage or divorce. The key message is to stay honest, respect each other’s needs, and seek solutions that support both partners’ well-being and happiness.

Reversed meaning

In love, Justice reversed can show unresolved issues, unfair treatment, or misunderstandings in relationships. One partner might feel unheard, or past mistakes could be causing friction. If you’re single, you might be holding onto resentment or struggling to find balance in dating. This card asks you to look at your part in any disagreements, communicate openly, and work toward forgiveness. It’s important to set boundaries and insist on fairness, but also to be fair to yourself. Healing comes from honesty, patience, and a willingness to make things right.

Upright keywords: Honesty, Equality, Commitment, Resolution, Respect

Reversed keywords: Misunderstandings, Resentment, Unfairness, Unresolved issues, Distance

Justice — Career meaning

Upright meaning

For career, Justice upright signals important decisions, contracts, or the need to act with integrity at work. You may face choices that test your values or require you to advocate for fairness. This card encourages clear communication, playing by the rules, and standing up for what’s right—even if it’s not the easiest path. Legal matters, negotiations, or performance reviews may also be highlighted now. Success comes from being transparent, fair, and accountable in all your actions. Justice promises that hard work and honesty will be recognized, bringing stability and respect in your career.

Reversed meaning

For career, Justice reversed signals office politics, biased treatment, or a lack of recognition at work. You may feel your efforts are overlooked, or that the rules are being bent against you. Sometimes this card warns of dishonesty, broken promises, or even legal trouble. Take care to document your actions, be clear about expectations, and avoid cutting corners. If you’re facing setbacks, focus on what you can control and be proactive in seeking solutions. In time, fairness can be restored, but it may require you to speak up or advocate for yourself.

Upright keywords: Integrity, Contracts, Decisions, Responsibility, Recognition

Reversed keywords: Office politics, Bias, Setbacks, Dishonesty, Lack of recognition

Justice — Spiritual meaning

Upright meaning

Spiritually, Justice upright invites you to reflect on your actions, intentions, and the energy you put into the world. This is a time to balance your mind, body, and spirit by living in alignment with your deepest values. Justice asks you to take responsibility for your growth, forgive yourself and others for past mistakes, and seek truth in all areas of your life. Meditation, journaling, or self-inquiry can help you see where balance is needed. By living authentically and making amends where necessary, you find clarity, peace, and a renewed sense of harmony on your spiritual path.

Reversed meaning

Spiritually, Justice reversed suggests a disconnect between your beliefs and actions, or difficulty finding peace with past choices. You may be judging yourself harshly, avoiding self-reflection, or feeling weighed down by guilt. The card encourages you to let go of perfectionism and practice forgiveness, both for yourself and others. Seek out spiritual practices that help restore balance, such as meditation or acts of kindness. Healing is possible when you accept your flaws, learn from mistakes, and move forward with a sincere commitment to living in greater alignment with your truth.

Upright keywords: Self-reflection, Balance, Growth, Forgiveness, Truth

Reversed keywords: Disconnect, Guilt, Self-judgment, Imbalance, Healing