Major Arcana
Adjustment is Balance. Harmony in universal law. Fairness.
The Adjustment card in the Thoth Tarot, often associated with Justice or Temperance in other decks, embodies the principles of harmony, balance, and equilibrium. Created by Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris, this card emphasizes the importance of inner harmony, moral integrity, and the process of aligning oneself with higher truths. Let’s explore the rich symbolism and deeper meaning of the Thoth Tarot Adjustment.
Visuals and Symbolism
In the Thoth Tarot, Adjustment depicts a figure—often a winged, angelic being—standing amidst a landscape that suggests harmony and equilibrium. Key elements include:
The Winged Figure: Symbolizes spiritual ascension and divine guidance.
Scales or Balance: Represent fairness, justice, and the necessity of weighing choices with discernment.
The Sword or Blade: Signifies truth, clarity, and the power of decision-making.
The Serpent or Ouroboros: Sometimes present, indicating cycles, transformation, and self-awareness.
Color Palette: Harmonious colors—blues, whites, and golds—evoke serenity, clarity, and divine insight.
Crowley’s depiction emphasizes that true justice and balance are rooted in inner harmony and spiritual awareness, rather than external punishment.
Core Meaning of the Thoth Adjustment
Adjustment symbolizes:
Inner harmony and moral alignment
Fairness, justice, and accountability
The process of self-evaluation and self-correction
Balance between opposing forces—such as reason and emotion, spirit and matter
The awakening to higher consciousness through self-awareness
It reminds us that true justice begins within.
Upright Interpretation
When Adjustment appears upright in a reading, it indicates:
A time to seek balance and fairness in your life
The importance of honest self-assessment
Making decisions with clarity and integrity
Reconciliation of conflicting aspects within yourself
A call for moral clarity and spiritual alignment
It encourages acting from a place of truth, fairness, and inner harmony.
Reversed Interpretation
Reversed, Adjustment can suggest:
Inner imbalance or moral conflict
Disharmony in relationships or situations
Denial of truth or avoidance of self-reflection
Unfairness or bias influencing decisions
The need to confront inner contradictions
It prompts you to realign with your higher truths and seek fairness.
Esoteric and Spiritual Significance
Crowley’s Adjustment aligns with the principles of balance, justice, and moral integrity. It reflects the process of inner alchemy—transforming base impulses into higher virtues. The card emphasizes that true harmony is achieved through self-awareness, discipline, and spiritual growth.
Spiritually, Adjustment calls us to evaluate our actions honestly, seek moral clarity, and strive for equilibrium in all aspects of life.
In Practice
The Adjustment card signals a time to:
Reflect honestly on your choices and actions
Seek fairness and justice in your dealings with others
Strive for inner harmony and moral integrity
Make decisions based on truth and higher principles
Balance your spiritual and material pursuits
It encourages self-evaluation and alignment with your authentic self.
Conclusion
The Thoth Tarot Adjustment is a profound symbol of inner harmony, moral clarity, and spiritual balance. Its imagery reminds us that justice begins within—through self-awareness, honesty, and aligning ourselves with higher truths. When Adjustment appears, it’s an invitation to evaluate, correct, and harmonize your life so that your actions reflect your deepest integrity and spiritual purpose.