Keywords (Upright): bondage, temptation, materialism, shadow, desire Keywords (Reversed): liberation, awareness, reclaiming power, breaking patterns
Card Description & Symbolism
In traditional tarot, The Devil stands as a powerful symbol of illusion and entrapment. A goat-headed figure looms over two chained humans, suggesting control, but the chains are notably loose—the imprisonment is voluntary. The torch burns downward, indicating inverted life force—energy consumed by fear, obsession, or indulgence.
In the Thoth Tarot, The Devil is not a figure of evil, but of revealed material force. He is the dancing goat-god, exuberant and unapologetically embodied, spinning through the circles of manifestation. Ruled by Capricorn and linked to the Hebrew letter Ayin (ע)—meaning “eye”—this version of the Devil exposes what is hidden. It’s not concealment—it’s confrontation with your shadow.
The Devil Tarot Card Meaning: Upright
When The Devil appears upright, it often signifies bondage through illusion. You may be caught in a cycle of addiction, materialism, or fear—not because you are powerless, but because you believe you are.
Key Upright Interpretations:
Temptation & Desire: You’re being pulled by powerful cravings—whether for pleasure, control, or escape.
Attachment to Illusion: False beliefs or projections are limiting your freedom.
Shadow Confrontation: It’s time to examine what you avoid or suppress—this is your chance to name your captors.
The Devil tarot card meaning in this form is not punishment—it’s illumination. The truth may be uncomfortable, but it holds the key to your sovereignty.
The Devil Tarot Card Meaning: Reversed
When The Devil is reversed, a breakthrough becomes possible. The illusion is cracking, and awareness is beginning to shine through the fog of fear or addiction.
Key Reversed Interpretations:
Liberation from Bondage: You're recognizing the pattern and preparing to reclaim your agency.
Spiritual Awakening: The shadow is no longer hidden—you are facing it with courage.
Denial or Avoidance: Alternatively, you may see the trap but hesitate to act. Real freedom requires choice.
In reversal, the Devil tarot card meaning becomes a doorway. The chains are visible—and removable. The question is whether you’ll walk away.
Summary: The Shadow Unmasked
The Devil is not external evil—it is the projection of unconscious power. Upright, it reveals where you’ve surrendered to illusion. Reversed, it initiates the path of liberation, if you are willing to act.
This archetype cuts through every pretense and poses the essential question:
What are you giving your power to—and why?