The Devil Tarot Card Meanings

The Devil Upright Meaning

When The Devil appears upright, it's a flashing neon sign saying, "Pay attention to what's keeping you stuck!" In most versions of this card, we see a horned figure on a black pedestal, looming over two chained individuals who -- spoiler alert -- could totally leave. The trap? It's psychological. The chains? Loosely fitted. The fear? Loud, sure, but not final.

This card speaks to addiction, toxic patterns, power struggles, or anything you're attached to that's draining your energy and distorting your sense of choice. But here's the twist: The Devil can't steal your power -- you give it away.

And what does that mean? You can take it back.

The Devil Reversed Meaning

When The Devil is reversed, it's time to break free. Whether you're already detaching from what's been holding you down or just starting to see the pattern clearly, this reversal signals liberation … or at least the possibility of it. It all depends on whether you're ready to do the hard, honest work.

Sometimes The Devil shows up reversed when you're still rationalizing a situation that's no longer good for you or when you're starting to feel the discomfort that comes from waking up to an uncomfortable truth. Either way, the illusion is cracking, and you're beginning to understand just how much power you have.

The Devil Advice Position

Get real. What are you clinging to that's costing you peace, self-worth, or joy? The Devil doesn't ask for shame, just awareness. It's time to name the habit, the hook, the dynamic. When you call it out, you weaken its grip.

This is your moment to reclaim autonomy. Whether you need boundaries, detox, support, or just a reality check, the first step is honesty. Own your shadows. Then choose differently.

The Devil Love Position

In love, The Devil can point to intense chemistry with a side of codependency, jealousy, or control issues. It's the relationship that feels addictive but may be more about fear than love. Passion alone isn't enough.

If you're single, be mindful of who or what you're attracting. Are you repeating old emotional patterns? Settling for what's familiar instead of what's actually good for you?

In an existing relationship, this card invites radical honesty. What's working, what's not, and what's being hidden under the rug? Love should empower, not entrap.

The Devil Career Position

The Devil in your career reading often points to burnout, toxic work dynamics, or being chained to a job, role, or paycheck out of fear instead of fulfillment. It might feel like you have to stay … but is that true? Or is it just the story you've bought into?

This card can also flag materialism, obsession with status, or over-identifying with your job at the expense of your well-being. It's a wake-up call to redefine success on your own terms and reclaim your time, energy, and values in the process.

The good news? Awareness is the beginning of freedom. You're not stuck for good. You're just ready for a different choice.

The Devil in a Yes or No Card Reading

The Devil is a card of feeling trapped. If you're looking for simple Yes or No guidance and receive The Devil, the answer is NO. Think through the unintended consequences of whatever you're considering.