Death as Third Party (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

Death is the card of transformation, change, and rebirth. Although it has a bad reputation (made worse by B-horror movies), Death is actually one of the most positive cards in the Tarot! Death sits upright on his horse, ushering in a new era. Without winter, there is no spring. Death is the other side of life, making rebirth possible. 

Death reminds us to let go of what is not serving us. When we let go of what is no longer healthy, we open ourselves to positivity and possibility. When one door closes, another opens. Similarly, Death signals that a major phase in your life is ending, but another is starting. When we lean into its energy, we can let go of the past and focus on our present and our future. 

Upright Death as Third Party

If you are asking about a third-party situation, and you draw Death, it means that a major transformation is happening, and something in this connection is coming to an end. This suggests that the relationship is undergoing a deep shift, whether through a breakup, emotional detachment, or a significant change in its dynamics. While endings can be painful, this transition is necessary for growth and for all involved to move forward.

Death as third party suggests that the connection between them is undergoing a deep and necessary change, whether through a breakup, renewal, or a complete shift in dynamics. This could mean that the relationship is ending entirely, or that it is being forced to evolve into something completely different. No matter what, things will not remain the same, and the current state of the connection is unsustainable.

If you are asking about the third party’s intentions, Death indicates that they are ready for a major transition and may be letting go of the past to embrace something new. They may have reached a point where they recognize that this situation is no longer serving them, and they are preparing to release it. Their focus is likely on moving forward, even if that means leaving behind what once felt familiar or important.

If you are wondering if your person will leave the third party, Death suggests that a significant ending is likely, clearing the way for a completely different chapter. This does not necessarily mean a reunion, but it does indicate that the current structure of the relationship cannot continue. Whatever happens next will be shaped by this transformation, making space for something new to emerge.

If you are wondering where you stand in this situation, Death indicates that things will not stay the same, and it’s important to embrace change rather than resist it. Holding on to the past may only make this transition more difficult, as this card encourages surrender and trust in the process. The best approach is to allow what needs to end to do so, so that you can step into a new phase of your own journey.

For the future of this situation, Death suggests that the most likely outcome is a complete transformation, where one phase must end for something new to emerge. This could mean the dissolution of the third-party relationship or a significant restructuring of everyone’s roles and connections. Either way, clinging to the past is not an option, and embracing change will be necessary.

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Reversed Death as Third Party

If you are asking about a third-party situation, and you draw Death reversed, it means that resistance to change, fear of endings, or an unwillingness to let go is affecting the connection. Someone in the situation may be holding on despite knowing that things are no longer working, creating stagnation and tension. Instead of allowing necessary change to take place, they may be delaying the inevitable.

Death reversed as third party suggests that the connection between them is stagnant, with one or both people refusing to accept that things need to evolve or come to an end. This could indicate a relationship that lingers in a state of limbo, where neither person is truly happy but neither is willing to walk away. Avoiding change only prolongs discomfort, preventing real closure or progress.

If you are asking about the third party’s intentions, Death reversed indicates that they may be clinging to the situation out of fear, refusing to move on even when they know it’s necessary. They may be unwilling to face the reality that the relationship is no longer what it once was, making excuses to avoid letting go. Instead of embracing a new chapter, they may be stuck in patterns of avoidance or denial.

If you are wondering if your person will leave the third party, Death reversed suggests that they may be struggling to let go, avoiding the inevitable, or delaying an ending that needs to happen. Even if they know deep down that change is necessary, fear or attachment may be keeping them from taking action. This can lead to a drawn-out situation where nothing truly moves forward.

If you are wondering where you stand in this situation, Death reversed indicates that you may feel trapped in a cycle that is not progressing, and it’s time to consider whether holding on is truly serving you. Waiting for things to change when someone is actively resisting transformation can be emotionally exhausting. This card suggests it may be time to reclaim your power and move toward your own growth rather than waiting for someone else’s.

For the future of this situation, Death reversed suggests that the most likely outcome is continued resistance to necessary change, leading to delays or an extended period of emotional limbo. Until someone chooses to confront reality and take decisive action, the situation is unlikely to resolve. The only way forward is to accept what must end and make space for a new beginning, rather than staying stuck in fear or uncertainty.

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Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, Death reveals the power of transformative change. For the end of every cycle comes the beginning of another. In order to grow, we must shed beliefs and behaviors that are no longer serving us. Death can mean the literal end of a relationship. Equally, it can mean the end of one phase in your relationship and beginning of another. There is no life without Death. Embrace the transformative energy of this card to feel radically empowered. 

If you find yourself needing further clarity in your relationship matters that go beyond reading for yourself, Sibyl offers unlimited tarot readings on love & relationships, as a neutral and objective third party.