Zodiac and Tarot: What Does 'The Devil' Really Mean?
When you first see the Devil tarot card, you may feel a rush of excitement. The imagery is captivating, with chains, darkness, and temptation all combining to create a truly immersive experience. But don't worry, the Devil card in tarot is not just about evil or fear. Instead, it's a mirror that reveals what binds us, where we give away our power, and how we can reclaim our freedom. In the incredible XV Tarot (also known as Arcano 15 Tarot), this card is a symbol of desire, illusion, and the courage to break free.
The Devil Keyword
Upright: Bondage, desire, bondage, materialism, indulgence, temptation, ignorance, self-imposed limitations.
Reversed: Liberation, freedom, awakening, transformation, and breakthrough.
What's in The Devil Tarot Deck
The Devil Tarot card often depicts a horned figure resembling a satyr (Pan or Baphomet) towering over two humans bound by chains. Though restrained, the chains hang loosely, suggesting freedom is a choice. This card is numbered 15 (Roman numeral XV) in the Major Arcana of the Tarot deck, hence it is also known as Arcana 15.
I'm thrilled to share the following common core elements of the Devil card in Tarot:
The Devil's Form: Typically depicted as a goat-like creature with horns, resembling Baphomet or Pan, this symbol is a truly exciting one, representing primal instincts, temptation, and the shadow self. This is not about "evil" at all! It's all about desire, control, and those inner aspects we sometimes fear or suppress.
Chained Couple: A naked man and woman bound by chains beside the Devil. Yet the chains around their necks hang loosely, suggesting this bondage often stems from self-imposed confinement—but they still have the possibility of freedom.
Inverted Torch or Flame: The torch, when seen inverted in most Devil cards, is a symbol of energy used not as it should be, passion that has gone too far, or a state in which desire has taken hold.
Dark Background: The scene, composed of shadows and darkness, symbolises the unknown, the fears we face, and the blind spots in our awareness. It's a call to beware of the illusions that can entrap us, and to stay true to our path of knowledge.
Pentagram: Whether upright or inverted, it's a symbol of power and balance, and it reveals the distortion that occurs when energy is used destructively.
Taken together, these elements reveal something truly remarkable: the Devil Tarot card's meaning points not to external evil, but to the illusions, temptations, and pathological obsessions that will control us if left unchecked. The interpretation of these symbols is incredible: it's so inspiring to see that the Devil is not an ultimate punishment, but a warning! It's a fantastic reminder that we possess the power to break free from our shackles!
What Does The Devil Tarot Card Mean
The Devil tarot card meaning is all about the thrill of illusions, the intensity of obsessions, and the captivating depths of human desire. It asks: What is controlling you? This card is your key to freedom! Whether you're struggling with toxic relationships, an obsession with money, or negative thinking, it will help you recognise these chains and break free.
The Devil Meaning(Upright)
Love: In love, the Devil tarot card meaning in love often suggests passion, lust, and intense attraction. But it can also bring up feelings of jealousy, control, and codependency. It's a call to break free from fear and obsession, and embrace a life of passion and purpose.
Career: In career readings, the Devil upright symbolizes being stuck in a toxic work environment, chasing money at the expense of happiness, or feeling trapped in one's role. It may also point to unhealthy ambition, but that's all part of the journey!
Finance: Financially, this could mean overspending, accumulating debt, or becoming obsessed with material possessions. Exercise caution and never let money control your life – that's the key to a happy and prosperous existence!
Tips: You can ask yourself, “What is holding me back?” Recognize those unhealthy obsessions and move toward balance and independence. Don't let these obsessions hold you back!
The Devil Tarot In Reversed
Love: When the Devil in reverse shows up in love readings, it's a sign that you're about to break free from toxic love patterns, leave controlling partners, or heal from obsession.
Career: At work, it's a sign that you're on the road to recovery from burnout, quitting a toxic job, or taking steps towards healthier aspirations.
Finance: When reversed, it may indicate escaping debt troubles, breaking free from excessive spending habits, or valuing freedom above wealth.
Tips: This is a chance to break free from illusion and take back control. When the Devil card is reversed, it represents freedom, clarity, and growth.
The Devil, Yes or No
When asked a simple yes-or-no question, the Devil usually chooses "no", especially if the question is about freedom, honesty, or a healthy relationship. But if the question is about strong feelings, or things you want in a short-term way, it might say "Yes", but with a warning about what could happen.
Conclusion
The Devil Tarot card does not mean bad things will happen. It is a call to be aware. Whether it's upright or reversed, it's a symbol of awakening: it encourages you to recognise where you are trapped and to realise that the key to freedom lies in your own hands. The chains have long been loosened – you just need to find the courage to break them.