The Devil

​

​

​

Ruling Planet: Saturn

 

Element: Earth

 

Numerology: 15 (1+5=6) Six ~ Reconciliation, responsibility, communication, balance.

 

Astrological Sign: Capricorn (Dec 22nd – Jan 20th)

 

 

At the heart of The Devil Tarot card lies a powerful depiction of bondage and temptation. The card features a horned, imposing figure sitting on a raised platform, representing dominance and control. The horns themselves are symbolic, drawing a direct connection to Capricorn, the astrological sign associated with this card. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, is known for its ambitious nature, often driven by material success and the pursuit of power. The horns can also signify the animalistic, primal instincts that reside within us, urging us to confront our baser desires.

​

The figure on the card presides over a naked man and woman, both bound by chains that hang loosely around their necks. This imagery suggests that their entrapment is not enforced by The Devil but by their own subconscious choices and fears. The chains symbolise the constraints we place upon ourselves, whether through addiction, fear, or unhealthy attachments. The fact that these chains are loose hints at the potential for freedom, should they choose to liberate themselves.

​

The platform on which The Devil sits signifies a higher ground of control, indicating that the forces represented by this card are not easily overcome. It suggests that the temptations and vices depicted are elevated above the mundane, holding significant influence over our lives.

​

Beneath The Devil’s feet, flames flicker, representing the destructive power of unchecked desires and the burning intensity of temptation. These flames can also symbolise purification through fire, suggesting that confronting these darker aspects of ourselves can lead to transformation and growth.

​

Grapes, often associated with indulgence and the pleasures of the senses, are seen in the card’s background. They represent the seductive nature of material and sensory pleasures, which can lead to overindulgence and loss of control. The grapes are a reminder of the dangers of excess and the ways in which we might be seduced by the allure of the material world.

​

The figures on the card appear to be in a state of surrender, their nudity highlighting vulnerability and exposure. This reflects how, in the face of powerful temptations or destructive patterns, we can feel stripped of our defenses and trapped by our desires. The card often speaks to codependent behaviors and dysfunctional patterns in relationships. The man and woman may represent individuals caught in toxic dynamics, where their connection is based on mutual addiction rather than genuine love. This can manifest as jealousy, obsession, or an unhealthy need for validation.

​

The Devil card challenges us to confront the shadow aspects of our personality, urging us to recognise and break free from these harmful patterns. The key message is that while the chains may feel heavy, they are not unbreakable. The power to liberate ourselves lies within, but it requires honesty, courage, and the willingness to face the truth about our situation.

​

​

Reversed

​

When reversed, The Devil card can indicate a tipping point where control has been lost, and destructive behaviors have escalated. The reversal often highlights the consequences of not addressing the issues depicted in the upright position. This may include the use of manipulation, coercion, or even violence to maintain power or control. The flames, now less visible, suggest that the situation has spiraled beyond immediate visibility, with deeper, more insidious consequences. This can include overwhelming debt, escalating addictions, or a relationship that has become unbearably toxic. The reversed Devil urges us to take decisive action to regain control and break free from these destructive cycles.

​

​

Reversed meanings…

​​

Issues: It could mean there is an issue with the card’s upright message.

​​

Opposite: The meaning may be the opposite of the upright message.

​

Blocked: The energy may be blocked and requires action to turn it around.

​

Weakened: The energy may be weaker than the upright meaning.

​

Warning: It may be a warning to avoid the current path or face possible difficulties or even danger.

​

Denial: It could suggest someone is in denial about the meaning of the card.

​

Delay: The energy may be delayed and will manifest eventually.

​

Decay: The upright meaning is diminishing and cannot be relied on.

​