Keywords: temptation, addiction, control, shadow self, obsession, materialism
Card Number: XV (15 – Major Arcana)
Element: Earth
Astrological Sign: Capricorn
The Devil tarot card represents the shadow side of human nature—temptation, bondage, and the illusions that keep us stuck. But despite its fearsome imagery, The Devil is not a card of doom. It’s a mirror showing where we may be giving away our power, trapped by unhealthy habits, toxic relationships, or limiting beliefs.
When The Devil appears, it challenges you to face your inner darkness, break free from what enslaves you, and reclaim your personal freedom.
🟢 Upright Meaning
Upright, The Devil signals entrapment, temptation, or destructive patterns. You may be feeling stuck in a situation, but the chains are looser than they appear—often, they’re self-imposed. Whether it’s addiction, codependency, obsession, or unhealthy indulgence, this card calls for awareness and accountability.
The Devil also speaks to materialism, lust, or the ego’s grip, warning you not to lose your soul in pursuit of gratification.
Upright Themes:
- Addiction or compulsive behaviors
- Unhealthy relationships or power imbalances
- Being ruled by desire or fear
- Avoidance of responsibility
- Confronting your shadow self
🔻 Reversed Meaning
Reversed, The Devil often points to a breakthrough or release. You may be becoming aware of the chains that bind you and are ready to free yourself from toxic influences. It can also signal denial—refusing to see a harmful pattern that’s draining your energy or keeping you stuck.
This card reversed encourages courage: the first step to freedom is recognition.
Reversed Themes:
- Breaking free from addictions or limitations
- Letting go of toxic attachments
- Shadow work and self-liberation
- Denial or repression
- Overcoming fear and shame
❤️ The Devil in Love
In love, The Devil can indicate lust without love, codependency, jealousy, or manipulation. You may be in a relationship that feels passionate but controlling—or be drawn to someone for the wrong reasons. This card asks: are you in love, or just addicted to the high?
Reversed, it can suggest healing from toxic bonds, leaving abusive dynamics, or learning to set healthy boundaries.
💼 The Devil in Career
Professionally, The Devil can signal feeling trapped in a job, workaholism, or a toxic work culture. You might be sacrificing your values for money, recognition, or power. It’s a wake-up call to examine your relationship to success and material gain.
Reversed, it points to escaping a draining job, overcoming imposter syndrome, or redefining your purpose on your own terms.
🌌 The Devil in Spirituality
Spiritually, The Devil represents the ego, illusions, and shadow work. It invites you to explore the parts of yourself you often avoid—fear, shame, desire, control—and integrate them, rather than repress them. It’s not evil; it’s a lesson in self-awareness.
Reversed, it shows a readiness to face spiritual truth, release shame, and walk a freer, more authentic path.
✨ Final Thoughts
The Devil challenges you to look deeply at what’s truly holding you back—not to scare you, but to awaken you. By facing the chains you’ve accepted, you gain the power to break free and transform. True liberation begins with knowing what’s been keeping you small.