The Devil Tarot Card Meaning
The Devil does not need to lock the door, you will do it yourself. This card represents temptation, addiction, control, and self-imposed limitation. It speaks to the things that hold us captive, whether they are toxic relationships, destructive habits, material obsessions, or internal fears. But here’s the truth: The chains aren’t locked. They never were.
Walk Away
The Devil card in tarot represents temptation, addiction, materialism, and control. It signifies being trapped in unhealthy patterns, often by one's own desires or fears. However, this card also brings awareness and the opportunity for transformation by confronting one’s shadow self.
In many depictions of this card, the figures bound by chains could easily remove them if they chose to, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The Devil reminds us that breaking free from toxic cycles, unhealthy relationships, or self-destructive habits is challenging, but it is necessary. Acknowledging that something has power over you is the first step to reclaiming control. This card isn’t just about recognizing the chains, it’s about realizing you have the strength to take them off and walk away.
Key Takeaways:
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The Devil is a card of bondage, temptation, and illusions.
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When upright, it represents unhealthy attachments, addiction, and toxic influences.
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When reversed, it symbolizes breaking free, gaining awareness, and reclaiming personal power.
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Symbolism includes chains (bondage), the inverted pentagram (shadow energy), and the figures (submission to desires).
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In love readings, it warns of obsession, manipulation, or unhealthy dynamics.
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In career readings, it highlights control, power struggles, or financial greed.
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Associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, representing structure and limitations.
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Astrologically, The Devil is influenced by Saturn, symbolizing restriction and discipline.
The Devil Tarot Card: An Overview
The Devil card confronts us with our vices, showing where we are bound by desire, fear, or addiction. Often depicted with two figures in chains before a horned entity, the image carries a critical message: they could remove the chains if they chose to—but that doesn’t make it easy.
This card is not just about external control; it’s about what we willingly surrender to. Sometimes, we give up our power because the comfort of the familiar, even when harmful, is easier than facing the unknown. The Devil thrives in complacency, whispering, This is just the way things are. Why fight it?
But awareness is the first step to breaking free. The Devil card does not force captivity—it exposes it. It urges you to confront what has power over you and recognize that you are not as powerless as you might believe. This is not about shame or blame; it is about reclaiming control.
Ask yourself:
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What habits, fears, or attachments are holding me back?
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Am I mistaking comfort for freedom?
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What story am I telling myself to justify staying where I am?
The Devil is not your master—you are. But to break free, you must first recognize the chains for what they are.
Symbolism of the Devil Tarot Card
The Horned Devil Figure
The Devil himself symbolizes temptation and control. His menacing yet composed posture suggests dominance over those who succumb to materialism and addiction.
The Chains
A man and a woman are loosely chained to the Devil, representing bondage to unhealthy patterns or negative influences. The chains are removable, showing that freedom is possible with awareness.
The Inverted Pentagram
This upside-down symbol signifies imbalance and being ruled by base desires rather than higher consciousness.
The Fire and Torch
The torch in The Devil’s hand represents the burning passions and impulses that control us when left unchecked.
The Devil Upright Meaning
When The Devil appears upright in a tarot reading, it signals being stuck in negative patterns or external control. It’s a call to recognize and break free from these illusions.
Personal Growth & Shadow Work
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Reflects unhealthy attachments, addictions, or fears that limit growth.
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Encourages shadow work—facing the hidden aspects of yourself.
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Warns against self-sabotage and destructive habits.
Love and Relationships
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For singles: Be cautious of manipulative or obsessive connections.
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For relationships: Indicates power imbalances, toxic behavior, or dependency issues.
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Advice: Focus on self-love and setting boundaries.
Career and Finances
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Suggests workplace toxicity, power struggles, or unethical dealings.
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Warns against greed, manipulation, or unhealthy ambition.
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Encourages evaluating if financial or career choices align with true values.
Health and Well-being
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Can indicate addiction or neglecting well-being.
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Encourages mindfulness, balance, and releasing self-destructive habits.
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Suggests stress or mental exhaustion due to toxic influences.
The Devil Reversed Meaning
When reversed, The Devil represents liberation, self-awareness, and breaking free from unhealthy patterns.
Personal Growth
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Recognizing toxic cycles and choosing self-empowerment.
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Overcoming fear-based thinking or limiting beliefs.
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Letting go of guilt, shame, or emotional baggage.
Love and Relationships
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For singles: Healing from past toxic relationships.
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For relationships: A chance to rebuild trust and break unhealthy patterns.
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Advice: Embrace self-worth and choose relationships that nurture growth.
Career and Finances
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Escaping a toxic work environment or unethical dealings.
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Gaining clarity on financial habits and material desires.
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Encourages ethical decisions and personal empowerment.
Health and Well-being
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Recovering from addiction, stress, or harmful behaviors.
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Learning self-discipline and balance.
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Prioritizing emotional and mental well-being.
The Devil in Different Life Aspects
Love and Relationships
The Devil in love readings often signals obsession, toxic bonds, or emotional control.
If You’re Single
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Be mindful of unhealthy attraction or manipulative relationships.
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Work on self-love and healing before entering a new relationship.
If You’re in a Relationship
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Highlights attachment, control, or dependency issues.
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Encourages open discussions about power imbalances.
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May indicate a need to break free from a toxic dynamic.
Career and Work
In career and financial readings, The Devil warns of power struggles, unethical behavior, or feeling trapped.
Work and Career
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Be aware of manipulation or toxic leadership.
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Avoid unethical shortcuts or sacrificing well-being for success.
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If feeling stuck, consider ways to reclaim personal power.
Financial Outlook
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Warns against financial greed or reckless spending.
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Encourages breaking free from debt or unhealthy money habits.
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Focus on financial independence and ethical wealth-building.
Astrological Association
The Devil is astrologically linked to Capricorn, ruled by Saturn. Capricorn represents ambition, discipline, and material success, while Saturn governs structure, restriction, and karmic lessons. This card’s influence teaches us the balance between material pursuits and spiritual growth.
Numerological Significance
The Devil card in Tarot is numbered XV (15), and in numerology, 15 reduces to 6 (1 + 5 = 6). This numerical connection carries deep significance:
Number 15 in Numerology
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1 (Independence, Leadership) + 5 (Freedom, Change) = A complex interplay of ambition and desire.
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15 is associated with magnetism, charm, and material success but also temptation and indulgence.
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It resonates with Venusian energy—pleasure, attraction, and sensuality.
Connection to 6 (The Lovers)
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The Devil (15 → 6) is numerologically linked to The Lovers (Card VI), highlighting themes of relationships, choice, and duality.
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While The Lovers represents harmony, The Devil shows its shadow side—attachments, dependencies, and illusions.
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This suggests that The Devil isn't inherently evil but a test of one's ability to see through deception and break free.
Focused Questions
What does The Devil tarot card mean in a reading?
The Devil represents temptation, control, and unhealthy attachments. It warns against destructive habits and encourages self-awareness and liberation.
Is The Devil card a yes or no card?
The Devil is typically a no card, especially if the situation involves toxic influences or lack of control.
What zodiac sign is associated with The Devil card?
The Devil is associated with Capricorn, representing ambition, discipline, and material pursuits.
How does The Devil card relate to manifestation?
This card cautions against manifesting from a place of greed or fear. True manifestation comes from alignment, not desperation or control.
What crystals and herbs enhance The Devil card’s energy?
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Crystals: Obsidian (protection), Black Tourmaline (grounding), Garnet (passion and transformation).
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Herbs: Mugwort (shadow work), Clove (protection), Patchouli (grounding energy).