The Devil

Chainkeeper

The Devil is Major Arcana number 15, who helps the The Fool ensnare themselves in a trap of their own making, from which it will require the shock of Major Arcana number 16, The Tower, to break free. It is the owner of the Tarot deck. The Tarot interpretation of The Devil often involves an obsession with material things, someone who has forgotten their own agency, or doing something you know is wrong.

The Devil tarot card from the Piedmontese tarot deck (Tarocco Piemontese), published in 1865. Traditional Italian tarot artwork symbolizing addiction, illusion, and the struggle with inner demons.
The Devil tarot card from the Cary-Yale Visconti deck, part of the Tarocchi Visconti di Modrone collection, illustrated in the 15th century by Bonifacio Bembo. Medieval tarot symbolism, representing temptation, bondage, and shadow aspects of the self.

The Devil Card Meaning

The Devil card is about being locked in a prison of our own making, or taking too much pride or pleasure in physical things.

Symbolism in The Devil

The Devil is symbolized by chains, prisons, addiction. In the context of Astrology it is linked with Capricorn, as both can become utterly consumed or obsessed with some purpose that they choose.

The Devil Reversed Meaning

The Devil reversed means that chains have been broken, a fog has been lifted, or something you liked suddenly no longer gives you any pleasure.

Major Arcana
Tarot Cards

Does The Devil represent you right now?

Click to reveal the card below – if it’s The Devil, then this card’s energy is strongly influencing your right now! If not, it may be a message that The Devil card wants you to hear…

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All tarot card images shown on this page are in the public domain. The faithful reproductions are considered public domain under the faithful reproduction clause in the United States.

Fool’s Key Tarot

Fool’s Key weaves Tarot, Astrology, and other esoteric traditions into a unified symbolic system. By exploring their interconnections, you can uncover deeper meanings, sharpen your intuition, and discover new ways to learn, reflect, and grow.