Justice sits between two pillars, scales in one hand, sword in the other. This is the Roman goddess Iustitia. Her judgment is fair and objective, using cool-headed reason to restore order. 

 

It is indeed the Sword that characterizes her actions and her search for the truth. It is sharp and rational, ignoring passion (Wands) and emotion (Cups). This is true wisdom; controlling one's emotional reactions so that the universal principle of reason prevails to determine one's action. Lady Justice is often depicted wearing a blindfold, representing that justice should be meted out objectively and impartially. Justice will not be bribed by wealth, power, or status (Coins).

 

This card may push us to critically reexamine our ingrained opinions and prejudices. Or it may remind us that we need to behave responsibly, be levelheaded, using logic and reason to bring our life back into balance. The judgment may feel harsh, but you can't argue with it. We can never attain a fully objective state of mind, and perhaps we can't even come close. But we should strive for it nevertheless, skeptically interrogating our beliefs and actions whenever it matters. As Bertrand Russell put it:

 

When you are studying any matter, or considering any philosophy, ask yourself only what are the facts and what is the truth that the facts bear out. Never let yourself be diverted either by what you wish to believe, or by what you think would have beneficent social effects if it were believed. But look only, and solely, at what are the facts.