The Devil — a reflection of temptation, ambitions, the power of desires and fantasies, the shadow of suppressed human emotions, and material power. The card is not negative in the usual sense; it simply exposes everything we so desperately seek to hide and seeks to test a person’s strength, forcing them to see their own weaknesses and free themselves from them.
The Major Arcana has the numerical value of 15, which is particularly interesting among the tarot cards. If we add 1 + 5, we get 6 — the number of the Lovers Arcana. And if we also compare the images of the Lovers and the Devil, it can be seen with the naked eye that they are remarkably similar. The numerical value of the Devil speaks of inner shadows and the difficult choice between temptation and spiritual development.
Ruling planet: Pluto.
Element: Earth.
Zodiac sign: Capricorn.
Alchemical meaning: That which has power over us.
The archetype of the Devil corresponds to a tempter, a person who has power over another or seeks to obtain it above all else. They are sexual and magnetic, have the courage to accept their shadow and control it, and are highly successful in the material sphere.
In its shadow aspect, however, this is a person who is dependent on their own desires and does not know the word “no.” They have no moral principles or boundaries, so they deceive and manipulate others in such a way that those around them do not even realize it.
Symbolism and imagery of the card
Before us stands the Devil on a pedestal, personifying the instinctive, material, and shadow side of human nature. His horns demonstrate untamed animalistic and primal energy. Between them we see an inverted pentagram — a symbol of the material and physical being placed above the spiritual. The Devil’s wings are an illusion of freedom and the possibility of rising above a situation if one learns to set priorities correctly.
The hand gestures made by the Devil have a special meaning. His right hand seems to parody the Hierophant, demanding absolute and blind submission. His left hand holds a torch pointed downward, symbolically not illuminating the path, but fueling the passions and addictions that exist in the material form of life.
The woman and man on the card begin to resemble the Devil himself. This embodies the moment when a person gradually takes on the characteristics of the one they submit to. Addiction changes a person’s essence.
The main element of the Arcana is the chains, which are a symbol of submission and attachment. However, an important detail is often overlooked: they are not tightly fastened. The Devil holds a person only as long as they believe they cannot leave.
The people who resemble those depicted on the Lovers Arcana have a choice. They simply do not dare to make it or shift responsibility for their own decision onto someone else.
What does the Devil mean in the upright position?
The upright position of the card speaks of a strong desire for material or physical well-being, and wealth as one of the forms of power. It can also signify great efforts to achieve financial success, fame, and popularity.
The card indicates that you are held captive by your feelings, erotic fantasies, and addictions. Pleasure takes precedence over consequences. The Devil says: “Look at what is truly controlling you.”
What does the Devil mean in the reversed position?
The reversed Devil has two main lines of interpretation. The first: a person finally sees and acknowledges the chains around their own neck, and therefore begins to remove them. This is interpreted as awareness of one’s shadow, breaking free from addiction, and regaining control over oneself.
The second line points to a hidden addiction. A person convinces themselves that they have freed themselves from everything unnecessary, but in reality, they continue to remain in chains. In this case, the Devil addresses you: “You already know that all of this is a chain. Why are you still holding on to it?”
Interpretation of the Devil card in love
Upright meaning
The Devil in love readings is one of the strongest cards expressing physical attraction and sexual chemistry. However, it is important to note that strong passion does not equal love.
The upright Arcana indicates high sexual compatibility and magnetism. At the same time, it can speak of obsession with a partner, jealousy, toxic attachment, and relationships that are difficult to leave. If the question concerned whether the partner has someone else, the Devil indicates the presence of a love triangle.
Reversed meaning
The reversed Devil is interpreted as an awareness of manipulation and toxicity on the part of a partner, an attempt to restore personal boundaries, and liberation from an unhealthy attachment. It can also indicate the end of a love triangle.
Sometimes the Arcana points to a hidden addiction. A person has outwardly broken a painful connection, yet internally continues to live with it.
Interpretation in the area of health
Upright meaning
The Devil in the area of health most often speaks of habits and extremes that a person resorts to in relation to self-care. It points to lack of sleep, overeating, and compulsive behavior.
The card can also signify exhaustion caused by overwork, dependence on stimulants or other substances, and a psychological attachment that harms mental health. Pay attention to this.
Reversed meaning
The reversed Devil indicates regaining control over oneself. It appears when a person begins to realize what exactly is harming their body, gives up destructive behavior, starts working with their addiction, and gets rid of harmful habits.
The Devil reminds us: “The first step is usually the hardest, but it is precisely where change begins.” Pay attention to this.
It is important to note: tarot cards do not provide medical diagnoses and cannot replace a full consultation with a doctor!
Interpretation in career and finances
Upright meaning
The Arcana is very closely connected with the material sphere of life. It may indicate that a person, thanks to their ambitions and strong motivation, earns large amounts of money and gains power through resources.
At the same time, the Devil indicates that a person is dependent on finances, which may lead them to accumulate debts and take out loans or make risky investments. Work brings them satisfaction only when it provides them with money.
Reversed meaning
The card signifies giving up unnecessary expenses, freeing oneself from financial dependence, and getting out of debt. The person has made or needs to make a complete reassessment of their attitude toward money.
At the same time, the reversed Devil may hint at hidden debts or an attempt to escape financial responsibility. A person needs to realize that they alone are responsible for their own decisions.
Combinations of the Devil with other cards
The Devil + King of Cups. Using another person’s feelings for one’s own benefit.
The Devil + Knight of Cups. Strong emotional dependence on a person or an indication of someone who plays with feelings (depending on the question).
The Devil + Two of Cups. A very strong attraction to a person that may develop into a codependent relationship.
The Devil + Ace of Wands. The combination indicates an incredible impulse and passion, as well as high sexual energy.
The Devil + Eight of Swords. The combination says directly: “The feeling that there is no choice has arisen because of your own limitations in your mind.”
Advice if the card appears
Do you think the Devil has taken your soul captive? Does it seem impossible to break free from the cycle of suffering and addictions? Look at the card again: the chains are not tightening around the necks of the people depicted on the card; they are simply resting there. Perhaps you put these chains on yourself. But in that case, you will also be able to take them off yourself!
The most frequently asked questions about the Devil
Will I meet my love within three months?
Upright card
Yes. However, do not immediately call what is just beginning love.
Reversed card
A new connection may come only after freeing yourself from a past attachment.
What does this person really want from me?
Upright card
This person wants access to your energy or body. They are strongly attracted to you, but the motive may be more connected with sexual desire.
Reversed card
The person themselves does not fully realize their true intentions and desires.
What will happen if I accept this job?
Upright card
The job may prove to be very profitable, but it is important to learn more about its conditions and schedule.
Reversed card
There is a chance to free yourself from financial dependence on your employer and stop working at an exhausting job.
