Tarot card meanings › The Devil
Major Arcana · XV
The Devil tarot card meaning
- Attachment
- Temptation
- Restriction
- Materialism
- Yes or no
- No
- Element
- Earth · Capricorn
- Reversed
- Release · Breaking free · Reclaiming power · Awareness
AdviceNotice what is holding you back, and remember that you have the power to let it go.
What the card shows
A horned figure crouches on a dark pedestal, with a naked man and woman chained loosely below him. They wear small horns and tails, showing how they have taken on his influence. Yet the chains around their necks are loose enough to lift off, revealing that they could free themselves at any time if they chose to.
The Devil upright
The Devil represents the things that hold us back: unhealthy habits, attachments, fears or patterns that feel hard to escape. This card does not mean anything evil; rather, it asks you to look honestly at where you feel stuck or restricted. Often the chains are looser than we think. The Devil can point to temptation, overindulgence or focusing too much on material things. The good news is that awareness is the first step to freedom, and you have more choice than you realise.
Love
In love, The Devil can point to intense attraction and passion, but also to unhealthy patterns such as jealousy, possessiveness or staying in a relationship out of fear. Look honestly at whether a connection feels freeing or confining. Healthy love should leave you feeling like yourself. If something feels controlling, you deserve support and the freedom to choose what is right.
Career
At work, The Devil can show feeling trapped in a job, perhaps staying for the money or out of fear of change. You may be overworking or feeling controlled by demands. Ask yourself what is truly keeping you there. Even if you cannot leave immediately, recognising your options can help you feel less stuck and more in charge.
Finance
Financially, The Devil warns of debt, overspending or being ruled by money worries. It can also show using shopping or treats to fill an emotional gap. Take an honest look at your habits without blaming yourself. Small, practical changes and, if needed, support from a qualified adviser can help you gradually break free from financial pressure.
The Devil reversed
Reversed, The Devil is often a hopeful sign. It suggests you are beginning to break free from something that has been holding you back. You may be recognising an unhealthy habit, letting go of a draining relationship or reclaiming your sense of power. The process may take time and effort, but you are moving towards greater freedom. Keep going, and be proud of every step.
Love
In love, the reversed Devil suggests releasing an unhealthy pattern or relationship. You may be finding the courage to set boundaries or walk away from something controlling. This is a time to rediscover your independence and the kind of love you truly deserve.
Career
At work, this reversal shows freeing yourself from a situation that has felt restrictive. You may be ready to change jobs, set limits on your workload or stop people-pleasing. Taking back control of your working life brings fresh energy and renewed motivation.
Finance
Financially, the reversed Devil suggests you are starting to take back control. Perhaps you are tackling debt, cutting unhelpful spending or changing your relationship with money. Each small step towards financial freedom is worth celebrating, so keep going and be proud of yourself.
