The Devil upright meaning
The Devil shows the chains we wear by choice. Look closely: the collars around the figures' necks are loose enough to slip off. This card points to habits, addictions, unhealthy relationships or materialistic patterns that feel binding. It is not about evil; it is about awareness. When you see the chain clearly, you can choose to take it off.
The Devil reversed meaning
Reversed, the Devil often signals liberation. You are recognizing an unhealthy pattern and beginning to break free. It can also mean confronting your shadow side with honesty. The process may be uncomfortable, but it is deeply empowering.
The Devil in love and relationships
Upright in love
In love, the Devil speaks of intense attraction and strong physical chemistry, but also of possessiveness, codependency or a relationship that feels hard to leave even when it isn't healthy. Ask whether the bond is a choice or a compulsion.
Reversed in love
Reversed in love, it suggests breaking free from a toxic relationship or unhealthy dynamic. You are reclaiming your independence and self-respect.
The Devil as feelings
As feelings, the Devil shows someone who feels a powerful, almost obsessive attraction toward you. The pull is strong but may come with possessiveness.
The Devil for career and money
At work, beware of feeling trapped in a job just for the money, or of unethical practices. Financially, watch for overspending, debt and greed.
Is The Devil a yes or no card?
No
Upright, The Devil leans toward no, or at least 'not like this.' Themes of attachment and temptation suggest the situation needs to change before a yes is possible. Reversed, the answer can soften, because the card's reversed themes (release, breaking free) often show the difficulty starting to lift.
Want to try it? Ask your question on the yes or no tarot page.
The imagery of The Devil
A horned, winged figure crouches on a dark pedestal, one hand raised. Below him, a man and a woman with small horns and tails stand chained to the pedestal, though the chains around their necks hang loosely.
The Devil is card XV of the Major Arcana, the 22 cards that describe the big turning points and life lessons of the tarot. When a Major Arcana card appears, the situation usually carries more weight than everyday events. In the traditional Golden Dawn correspondences used with this deck, The Devil is linked to Capricorn and the element of Earth.
A question to reflect on
What am I holding onto that is holding me back?
Tarot works best as a mirror, not a verdict. Write the question above at the top of a page and answer it without editing yourself for five minutes. You may be surprised by what The Devil brings up.
Frequently asked questions
What does The Devil mean?
The Devil shows the chains we wear by choice. Look closely: the collars around the figures' necks are loose enough to slip off.
What does The Devil mean in love?
In love, the Devil speaks of intense attraction and strong physical chemistry, but also of possessiveness, codependency or a relationship that feels hard to leave even when it isn't healthy. Ask whether the bond is a choice or a compulsion.
What does The Devil reversed mean?
Reversed, the Devil often signals liberation. You are recognizing an unhealthy pattern and beginning to break free.
Is The Devil a yes or no card?
No. Upright, The Devil leans toward no, or at least 'not like this.' Themes of attachment and temptation suggest the situation needs to change before a yes is possible. Reversed, the answer can soften, because the card's reversed themes (release, breaking free) often show the difficulty starting to lift.
Related cards
Keep exploring the Major Arcana or the full list of 78 tarot card meanings.
For entertainment purposes only. Tarot readings are a tool for reflection and are not a substitute for professional advice. Read our disclaimer.