Historical archive

The Devil tarot card meaning

The Devil points to attachment, desire, fear and patterns that can become controlling. Read it as a clue about the central dynamic of the situation and the kind of choice or awareness it requires.

The Devil, tarot card
The Devil

What this card represents

Upright

The Devil points to attachment, desire, fear and patterns that can become controlling. Read it as a clue about the central dynamic of the situation and the kind of choice or awareness it requires.

Reversed

The Devil reversed points to the blocked or distorted side of attachment, desire, fear and patterns that can become controlling. The card asks you to recognize where that energy is being avoided, exaggerated or used against yourself.

In love

In love, The Devil brings attachment, desire, fear and patterns that can become controlling into the relationship. Pay attention to reciprocity, emotional truth and the choices being made in the bond.

Love when reversed

In love, The Devil reversed asks you to examine the shadow side of attachment, desire, fear and patterns that can become controlling. Look for imbalance, avoidance or expectations that are not being spoken clearly.

A question to reflect on

How does the message of The Devil relate to something I can actually do?

Keep exploring

Important note

Symbolic readings can help frame questions; they cannot prove what someone thinks or predict future events.