Major Arcana · № XV

The Devil: Tarot Card Meaning

The Devil

dependence
temptation
attachment
the shadow

Meaning of the The Devil card upright

The Devil looms over two chained figures, yet the chains around their necks hang loose and could be lifted off. The card shows the habits, addictions and beliefs that hold you captive. You can be free as soon as you admit that you are not locked in.

The Devil reversed

liberation
awareness
breaking the chains

Reversed, the Devil says that the chains are loosening: you recognise a dependence and begin to break away. The path out may be difficult, but it has started. Support helps now.

The Devil in love and relationships

In love there is strong physical attraction, codependence, jealousy or an attachment that stops growth. Ask yourself whether the bond is free. Reversed, liberation from a toxic pattern.

The Devil in work and finances

At work it speaks of golden handcuffs, overwork, a boss's pressure or a pursuit of money at any cost. Reversed, you decide to leave a situation that drains you.

Advice from The Devil

Ask what you are holding on to out of habit, and what would happen if you let go.

Symbolism of the The Devil card

The inverted pentagram above is spirit turned toward matter. The man and woman echo the Lovers, but without the angel. Their loose chains are the main message: the lock is often only in the mind.

The Devil in a yes or no reading

In yes or no spreads, The Devil upright reads as “no” and reversed as “no”. The answer comes from the general meaning of the card (dependence, temptation), so always take the wording of the question and the neighbouring cards into account. Try a yes or no reading.

Want to see this card in your own spread?

Draw cards from the fan and get an interpretation that takes your question into account.

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Frequently asked questions about the The Devil card

What does the The Devil card mean in tarot?

The Devil looms over two chained figures, yet the chains around their necks hang loose and could be lifted off. Keywords: dependence, temptation, attachment, the shadow.

What does The Devil mean in love and relationships?

In love there is strong physical attraction, codependence, jealousy or an attachment that stops growth.

How do I read the reversed The Devil card?

Reversed, the Devil says that the chains are loosening: you recognise a dependence and begin to break away. Keywords: liberation, awareness, breaking the chains.