Keywords
Upright: Bondage, addiction, materialism, negative patterns, temptation, dependency.
Reversed: Breaking free, liberation, release, reclaiming power, detachment.
Tarot Card Description
The Devil card depicts a horned, goat-like figure perched on a black pedestal. Two naked human figures, a man and a woman, are loosely chained to the pedestal. They have small horns and tails, showing they have given in to their more bestial natures. The chains around their necks are loose enough for them to escape, symbolizing that their bondage is self-imposed. The card represents the chains of addiction, materialism, and negative patterns that we bind ourselves with.
Upright Meaning
The Devil upright warns that you are trapped by unhealthy attachments, addictions, or a focus on the material world. You may feel powerless, but this card reminds you that your chains are self-imposed. You have the power to break free. It is a call to confront your shadow side—your fears, addictions, and negative patterns of thought—and to recognize the self-imposed limitations that are holding you back from your true potential and freedom.
Upright Love Meaning
In a love reading, The Devil can signify a toxic or codependent relationship. There may be jealousy, possessiveness, or an unhealthy obsession. It can also point to a relationship based purely on physical attraction or material gain, lacking real emotional depth. It is a sign that you need to assess the health of the partnership.
Upright Career Meaning
In a career context, this card can indicate feeling trapped in a job you hate because of the money or sense of security it provides. It can also point to a toxic work environment or engaging in unethical practices for material gain.
Upright Finances Meaning
Financially, The Devil represents being in bondage to debt or materialism. You may be spending compulsively or feel trapped by financial obligations. It is a call to re-evaluate your relationship with money and possessions.
Upright Yes or No
The answer is a firm **No**. You are trapped by negative circumstances or thinking, and moving forward will only deepen the bondage.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, The Devil is a powerful card of liberation. You are in the process of breaking free from the addictions, negative patterns, or unhealthy attachments that have been holding you back. You are reclaiming your power and releasing yourself from self-imposed limitations. This is a time of profound self-awareness and empowerment as you choose freedom over bondage.
Reversed Love Meaning
In love, the reversed Devil signifies breaking free from a toxic relationship or ending codependent patterns. You are reclaiming your independence and seeking a healthier, more authentic connection. This is a very positive sign for healing and moving on.
Reversed Career Meaning
Career-wise, this card indicates leaving a toxic job or releasing the limiting beliefs that have been holding you back professionally. You are breaking free from a career path that made you feel trapped, opening yourself up to more fulfilling work.
Reversed Finances Meaning
Financially, the reversed Devil suggests you are taking control of your debts and breaking free from compulsive spending or a materialistic mindset. You are on the path to financial freedom and independence.
Reversed Yes or No
The answer is **Yes**. You are breaking free from the constraints that were holding you back, allowing for a positive outcome.