The Devil
Upright Meaning
Materialism, addiction, restriction, shadow side.
Reversed Meaning
Breaking free, reclaiming power, breaking bonds.
The Devil in love, career and health
Love & Relationships
Upright Meaning
Obsession, toxic passion, emotional bondage.
Reversed Meaning
End of toxic relationship, liberation from obsession, reclaiming heart freedom.
Career & Work
Upright Meaning
Greed, imprisonment at work, ambition at any cost.
Reversed Meaning
Leaving an unsatisfying job, end of greed, new path.
Health & Wellness
Upright Meaning
Addictions, lack of control over the body, mental health issues.
Reversed Meaning
Getting out of addiction, reclaiming strength, working on the shadow.
Is The Devil a yes or no card?
No
Upright, The Devil is usually read as a no: it points to an obstacle, a loss or an ending worth respecting. Reversed, the answer tends to weaken or turn into "not yet", so read it together with the rest of the spread.
Advice
Face your weaknesses. Remember that you have the power to break the chains.
Warning
Watch out for temptations and easy solutions. Don't be trapped in your own desires.
Symbolism
- A satyr-like figure stands above two chained lovers. Their chains are loose implying they could leave if they chose.
Interpretation
Confront your shadow. You may be bound by material desires or addictions, but the chains are looser than you think. Reclaim your freedom.
Numerology
15 (Shadow harmony)
Frequently asked questions
What does The Devil mean in tarot?
Materialism, addiction, restriction, shadow side. Confront your shadow. You may be bound by material desires or addictions, but the chains are looser than you think. Reclaim your freedom.
What does The Devil reversed mean?
Breaking free, reclaiming power, breaking bonds.
What does The Devil mean in love?
Obsession, toxic passion, emotional bondage. Reversed Meaning: End of toxic relationship, liberation from obsession, reclaiming heart freedom.
What does The Devil mean for career and work?
Greed, imprisonment at work, ambition at any cost. Reversed Meaning: Leaving an unsatisfying job, end of greed, new path.
Is The Devil a yes or no card?
No. Upright, The Devil is usually read as a no: it points to an obstacle, a loss or an ending worth respecting. Reversed, the answer tends to weaken or turn into "not yet", so read it together with the rest of the spread.
What advice does The Devil give?
Face your weaknesses. Remember that you have the power to break the chains.