15 The Devil
The Devil card often represents feeling trapped, restricted, or powerless due to external or internal influences. It highlights unhealthy attachments, addiction, or harmful behaviors that may be controlling your life. While these constraints feel insurmountable, this card reminds you that the power to break free lies within you. Often, it’s your mindset or fear that creates this illusion of entrapment. The Devil also calls attention to obsessive or secretive tendencies and warns against prioritizing materialism or power over genuine fulfillment. It encourages taking responsibility for your actions and making choices that align with your long-term well-being.
Upright Meaning Guide
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Upright Keyword Meanings:
Addiction, depression, secrecy, obsession, manipulation, dependency, materialism, powerlessness, abuse, mental health challenges.
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General Interpretation (Upright)
The Devil card often represents feeling trapped, restricted, or powerless due to external or internal influences. It highlights unhealthy attachments, addiction, or harmful behaviors that may be controlling your life. While these constraints feel insurmountable, this card reminds you that the power to break free lies within you. Often, it’s your mindset or fear that creates this illusion of entrapment. The Devil also calls attention to obsessive or secretive tendencies and warns against prioritizing materialism or power over genuine fulfillment. It encourages taking responsibility for your actions and making choices that align with your long-term well-being.
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Love & Relationships (Upright)
In relationships, The Devil signals unhealthy dynamics such as codependency, jealousy, or manipulation. You or your partner may feel trapped or dominated, and mental health struggles could be straining the connection. In extreme cases, it warns of abuse, deceit, or infidelity. If you are single, it highlights unfulfilling or dangerous encounters driven by low self-esteem or desperation for love. Reflect on your emotional health and take time to rebuild your confidence before pursuing new relationships.
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Money & Career (Upright)
In a career context, The Devil indicates feeling stuck in an unsatisfying job or dealing with a deceptive coworker. It also warns against excessive focus on material gain or risky financial behavior, such as gambling or impulsive spending. This card calls for mindful decisions to regain control over your career and finances.
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Health (Upright)
The Devil suggests that harmful habits like substance abuse, overeating, or neglecting your health may be taking a toll. It also highlights mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety. Seek professional help if needed and take proactive steps to improve your well-being.
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Spirituality (Upright)
Spiritually, The Devil warns against materialism overshadowing your spiritual growth. A sense of hopelessness or negativity may be clouding your connection to the light. Focus on surrounding yourself with positive energy and rekindling your spiritual practices.
Reversed Meaning Guide
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Reversed Keyword Meanings:
Freedom, breaking cycles, overcoming addiction, self-empowerment, independence, clarity, reclaiming control.ce, discord.
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General Interpretation (Reversed)​
The reversed Devil indicates breaking free from unhealthy patterns or toxic influences. You are beginning to recognize the behaviors, relationships, or situations that have held you back and are taking steps to reclaim your power. This card reflects personal growth and the motivation to make changes for a better future. While the journey may be challenging, it’s a necessary step toward happiness and fulfillment. The Devil reversed also signals a near miss with harmful situations or people, serving as a reminder to remain vigilant and avoid slipping into old patterns.
Love & Relationships (Reversed)
In relationships, The Devil reversed signifies overcoming negative patterns or repairing a troubled partnership. It can also represent a close call with behaviors that might have damaged the relationship, such as infidelity. For those in abusive relationships, this card suggests beginning to regain power and recognize that help is available. For singles, it highlights moving away from destructive tendencies or harmful partners, signaling a time to focus on self-love and independence.
Money & Career (Reversed)
The Devil reversed indicates a renewed awareness of how your past choices have impacted your career or finances. You are ready to take responsibility and make decisions that align with your long-term goals. It suggests moving away from materialism or risky behavior and focusing on creating a stable foundation.
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Health (Reversed)
This card is a positive sign for recovery, especially from addictions or harmful habits. It shows progress in managing stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. Stay committed to your new path and avoid returning to old patterns that once held you back.
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Spirituality (Reversed)
Spiritually, The Devil reversed reflects emerging from darkness and moving toward light and self-awareness. It suggests learning from past challenges and reconnecting with your higher self. This card also signifies deflecting negative energy and protecting your spiritual well-being as you continue on your path of growth.
The Devil card, whether upright or reversed, serves as a powerful reminder to confront your fears, reclaim control, and break free from harmful patterns. It calls for self-awareness, responsibility, and the courage to pursue a more authentic and fulfilling life.
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