The Devil Tarot Card Meaning (Card 15)

Tarot, like astrology, has long been one of our favorite divination systems. Interpreting either takes practice. As you learn, we wanted to help you to quickly connect to the cards and use them in ways that are actionable and practical in every area of life. xoxo, Tali & Ophira

Co-authored by James Kerti

What does The Devil tarot card mean?

The Devil tarot card represents a feeling of being trapped or chained to circumstances that you feel you can’t break free from. Internal or external forces may be draining your power or preventing you from being at your best.

This major arcana card is tends to refer to addiction. It may be literal substance abuse, or negative habits and thought patterns.

The Devil tarot card:

  • Warns against short-term forms of pleasure and relief that may be destructive
  • Suggests that an addictive behavior may be at play
  • encourages you to reclaim your power, perhaps by breaking free of a restrictive relationship or situation
  • reminds you that it is possible to regain power by making better choices.

The Devil Tarot Guide

Keywords for The Devil: negative thinking and emotions, mental and emotional health challenges, addiction, restriction and lack, excess

Yes or No: No

Zodiac Sign of The Devil: Capricorn

Planet of The Devil: Saturn

Element of The Devil: Earth

What does The Devil card mean in a love reading?

The Devil card can pop up when a relationship has devolved into an unhealthy power dynamic. There may be a narcissist involved or a codependent dynamic. At least one person in the relationship may be feeling trapped and unable to express themselves fully.

Since The Devil card is associated with addiction, one (or both) of you may be exhibiting a compulsive behavior that is tearing the relationship apart. This is often something quite shadowy, like substance abuse, compulsive spending or a secret behavior. If any of those issues resonate with your relationship, The Devil card is a red flag warning you to not minimize the problem.

If you’re single, this card may appear because your romantic life is lacking depth. Encounters that are purely physical or born out of loneliness could keeping you stuck in a cycle of dissatisfaction. The Devil brings attention to your need to make a change. As the saying goes, it’s better to have no one than the wrong one.

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What does The Devil tarot card mean for career, money and finance?

The Devil appears in a money or career reading when there’s a strong feeling of being trapped. This usually relates to the job or work situation you’re in. Do you dread going to work? This card reminds you that you have the power to make a change. Quitting is not the only answer, but you need to reclaim a sense of purpose. Perhaps you put in a request to change teams, take a training that will allow you to work in a more suitable department or create a project that you feel passionate about.

In the context of money and finances, The Devil encourages you to practice restraint. If your spending is out of control, it can lead to similar feelings of powerlessness. Have you been caught up in addictive spending, such as retail therapy, gambling or anything that leaves you drowning in debt? Now’s the time to seek support, such as a 12-step program or therapy.

What does The Devil tarot card mean for health?

The Devil card often appears in a health reading to warn you that your behavior is negatively impacting health and well-being. If you’ve been engaging in any compulsive or risky behavior, or leaning too hard on any dependencies such as food or alcohol, this card brings attention to the consequences.

This card can also be associated with mental or emotional health issues. You’re encouraged to seek the support and resources you need. As opposed to other cards that might advise trying better self-care habits first, The Devil points more toward challenges for which connecting with a mental health professional or 12-step group would be more appropriate.

The Devil Tarot Card in Reverse Meaning

The Devil card is one of those in the deck that carries a more positive message when pulled reversed. If you’ve been struggling with something that’s been keeping you stuck, this card in reverse lets you know that you’re making good headway to overcome it.

Do you realize that you’re free to walk away? The Devil reversed indicates that the chains are off and you can (and should) leave the abusive or destructive situation ASAP.

Have you been working hard to change your behavior for the better? The Devil in reverse shows up in an encouraging way. It tells you that your shift in perspective pays off.

Keep going, and remember that it’s okay to do it imperfectly. If you mess up, don’t give up!

Is The Devil tarot card a yes or no?

The Devil card is a no in this context.

Feature art by Diana Hlevnjak

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