Major Arcana
The Devil: tarot card meaning
Dependence, temptation, the shadow side and chains that can be taken off.
Yes or no: No
Upright position
The Devil shows people in chains, but the chains hang loose. The card is about dependencies, unhealthy attachments and fears that run our lives. Release becomes possible once you notice what holds you.
More about the card
A horned creature sits on a rock, and below stand two horned figures chained to a column. Look closely: the chains are loose and can be taken off. The Devil speaks of dependencies, temptations, fears and everything that holds us through the force of habit. It may be money, relationships, food, a phone or the thought “I won’t be able to do it.” The card does not condemn; it shows where you are willingly giving away your freedom.
Reversed position
The reversed Devil means release: you see the trap and step out of it. A harmful habit or an unhealthy bond may start to lose its grip.
Symbolism of the card
A horned Devil sits on a pedestal to which two horned figures are chained. The chains hang slack, so the captives could throw them off. It is the image of a dependence in which a person stays voluntarily.
In love and relationships
Strong passion or an unhealthy attachment. Ask yourself whether you feel good in this relationship.
At work and in finances
A job that holds you through money or fear. Think about the price you are paying.
Reversed in love
Release from an unhealthy bond, or the first steps toward honesty in a relationship. You begin to see the chains and understand that you can take them off. The card supports the decision to leave what is hurting you.
As a feeling
Passion, strong attraction or dependence. The feelings can be intense but not always healthy.
The card as a person
A charismatic, passionate person who draws others in and can be hard to step away from. They love pleasure, power or money and may know how to play on the desires of others. Around them it is easy to lose your head.
As the card of the day
Pay attention to your habits: what you do automatically and what drains your energy. Today it is easy to give in to temptation or to pressure from others. Choose consciously.
Yes or no
No, if the question is about what holds you. First free yourself from the trap.
Combinations with other cards
- The Devil + The Lovers
Strong passion and mutual dependence, where it is hard to tell whether it is love or habit.
- The Devil + Eight of Swords
A feeling of being trapped, although there is a way out. Fear is stronger than the real limits.
- The Devil + Strength
Willpower and patience can help you let go of what holds you and regain a sense of control.
Questions to ask yourself
When this card comes up, it helps to answer honestly:
- What do I depend on more than I would like to?
- Which of my chains are not actually locked?
- What do I get out of the thing that limits me?
The card’s advice
Name what holds you, and it may loosen.