The Devil

Card Description

A horned, bat-winged devil sits on a pedestal, with a naked man and woman chained loosely at his feet. The chains around their necks are loose enough to slip off - they could free themselves if they chose. Both have small horns and tails, showing they've begun to take on the devil's nature.

The inverted pentagram above the devil's head represents the shadow side of spirituality. The dark background emphasizes ignorance and the unconscious. Yet this card is not about evil - it's about recognizing what controls us and choosing freedom.

Upright Meaning

The Devil reveals what binds you - addictions, unhealthy attachments, limiting beliefs, or toxic situations. These chains are often self-imposed. This card challenges you to face your shadow and recognize where you've given away your power.

• Face your shadow self
• Recognize unhealthy attachments
• Examine addictions and compulsions
• Acknowledge limiting beliefs
• Explore repressed desires
• Recognize what you've given power to

Reversed Meaning

Reversed, The Devil signals breaking free from bondage. You're recognizing and releasing unhealthy attachments. The chains are coming off. This is a powerful card of liberation and reclaiming your personal power.

• Breaking free from restrictions
• Overcoming addiction or bad habits
• Releasing unhealthy attachments
• Reclaiming personal power
• Shadow work and integration
• Liberation from limiting beliefs

The Devil in Love

Upright: Intense attraction that may be unhealthy, codependent relationships, or staying in a toxic dynamic. Examine whether passion has become obsession. The chains can slip off if you choose.

Reversed: Breaking free from an unhealthy relationship, overcoming codependency, or releasing attachment to someone unavailable. You're reclaiming your romantic freedom.

The Devil in Career

Upright: Feeling trapped in a job, workplace politics, or selling out your values for money. You may feel chained to a situation, but examine whether you're choosing to stay. Material security versus fulfillment.

Reversed: Breaking free from a dead-end job, releasing workaholic tendencies, or no longer being controlled by money fears. You're reclaiming your professional autonomy.

Capricorn Connection

The Devil is associated with Capricorn, the sign of ambition, structure, and material success. Capricorn's shadow side includes materialism, workaholism, and rigid control. The Devil asks us to examine where Capricorn energy has become restrictive rather than constructive.