The Devil: meaning

Upright meaning

This card brings to light the habits you can't seem to quit and the assumptions that keep you tied up. It isn't here to blame you — it's better read as a nudge to look again at whatever is keeping you small.

In love

Along with strong attraction, a good moment to check whether you're leaning on your partner too much. Making room for your own time too tends to keep the relationship healthy.

In work and daily life

Worth checking once whether you're moving out of short-term gain or plain inertia. Putting into words why you keep going often brings your real priorities into view.

Reversed meaning

A time when the hold of something loosens, bit by bit. A chance to look again at a habit or a relationship may come your way. Even a small step, chosen by you, can turn into confidence.

In love

A time when you can notice and reconsider a painful pattern in a relationship. You may feel the beginnings of knowing it's okay to choose what's good for you.

In work and daily life

You may find it easier now to set down a burden you've been carrying. Practicing saying no, or handing something over to someone else, creates breathing room.

Symbols on the card

Often depicted with two figures standing at the feet of a horned figure, loosely chained. The chains are drawn loose enough to lift off over the head — a detail said to show that most bonds are made of our own assumptions. It's read as a symbol of looking steadily at desire and attachment.

If you draw this card

Ask yourself

Is there something you keep going with because you've told yourself there's no choice?

One thing to do today

Cut your phone time a little shorter today, just for today.

Those chains are often looser than they look, you know.