Justice. It's the most common theme of the American Western movie. But justice carries a deeper meaning than attempting to right a wrong or giving payback to someone you perceive has done you wrong.

In the tarot, the notion of Justice is deeply tied to the notion of 'karma'. Karma refers to the cycle of 'cause and effect' and is central to several religions including Hindu and Buddhist.

Karma is an oft misunderstood and misapplied concept. It can be offered irresponsibly as a simplistic explanation for the misfortunes suffered by ourselves or others. (The suggestion on the part of some well-intentioned new age philosophers that serious illness is somehow a 'karmic' manifestation is a good example of this).

On the other hand, there are responsible ways to apply the concept of karma when seeking to understand the Justice card in tarot readings. The presence of the 'Justice' card can be an invitation to ask ourselves: "Have my actions contributed to this outcome? Will they?"

Looking inward at how we have contributed to our current circumstances (through our attitudes and choices) is not easy. Turning up the Justice card in a relationship reading can, for instance, suggest that we need to ask ourselves how the relationship we have attracted reflects what we have put out into the world.

How many friends do we know that complain constantly about how they don't like 'drama' in a relationship when we can see plainly that they are total drama queens themselves? If we constantly find ourselves attracted to unavailable or married people, does it reflect an underlying commitment-phobia within us?

In a career tarot reading, turning over the Justice card might inspire us to take a close look at how our choices up till now (education, performance, attitude) have influenced our current circumstances. It could also inspire us to ask how our career choices are affecting the world or our family. (A great book for thinking about the concept of karma in careers is the book "Mindfulness and Money".)

Such are the kinds of reflections inspired by the karmic nature of the Justice tarot card.

In addition to the karmic angle, here are some other suggestions EyeTarot.com has for interpreting the Justice tarot card in a reading:

Karma, Justice, Balance

  • Karmic law of 'cause and effect' at play (Ask yourself: Have my actions contributed to this outcome?)
  • Fair conclusion, discernment should be used
  • Weigh the sides of the issue and try to balance opposing demands/forces

Free tarot readings at EyeTarot.com can help you explore the meaning of the Justice in your life and relationships.

Keep THREE eyes open...
Nikki Harris

Author's Bio: 

Nikki Harris is a professional freelance writer and longtime tarot enthusiast. In her work, Nikki enjoys combining her philosophy background with metaphysical explorations. She currently serves as VP, Marketing for EyeTarot.com -- the world’s most powerful, free tarot reading website.