Devil as a Person (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Devil is the card of addiction, sexual desire, codependency, and attachment issues. This card shows two people, a man and a woman, chained to the devil himself. Though it seems like they are being held against their will, look further and you will see that the chains around their neck are quite loose. They have the capability to free themselves if they wish. 

The Devil reminds us that while desire is good, taken to an extreme, it becomes deadly. Addictions (whether to drugs, sex, or love) kill loving relationships. Codependency is dangerous, and we must develop our own individuality in a relationship. The Devil also reminds us that the greatest chains are the ones we set upon ourselves. It is up to us if we want to make a change. Our greatest power is within us. 

Upright Devil as a Person

If the Devil appears in a Tarot spread as a person, that means that this person is often associated with materialism, temptation, and may be a catalyst for one’s shadow self. They typically embody aspects of life that are seductive yet potentially destructive, often challenging individuals to confront their deeper desires and fears. This individual’s influence can be both intoxicating and perilous, drawing out the darker aspects of one’s personality.

For physical characteristics, the Devil as a person represents someone who is charismatic and alluring, often having a powerful and captivating presence. Their appearance might be marked by bold and striking features, exuding an air of confidence and sensuality. The Devil person often has a magnetic quality that attracts attention, sometimes in an intimidating or overwhelming manner.

For emotional characteristics, the Devil as a person represents someone who is manipulative, hedonistic, and can evoke strong desires and material cravings in others. They possess a knack for understanding and exploiting human desires, often using this ability to influence or control. This person’s emotional landscape is complex, marked by a pursuit of pleasure and power, sometimes at the expense of deeper emotional connections.

Astrologically, the Devil as a person represents someone who is likely influenced by Capricorn, signifying ambition, material focus, and sometimes a tendency towards control. Their astrological chart may highlight Capricorn’s traits of determination and a strong drive for success, which can manifest in a preoccupation with status and material gains. These influences contribute to their authoritative and disciplined demeanor, often directed towards achieving power and status.

For careers, the Devil can represent someone who works in industries driven by material success, such as finance, corporate leadership, or even in more hedonistic professions. They are often found in roles where they can exercise power and influence, thriving in competitive and high-stakes environments. The Devil’s career is typically marked by a pursuit of material and worldly success, sometimes neglecting ethical or spiritual considerations.

The Devil as a person represents someone who makes you feel both drawn to and wary of the material and physical pleasures, often highlighting your own temptations and constraints. Their presence can be a powerful mirror, reflecting your own vulnerabilities and unacknowledged desires. This person’s influence challenges you to examine the role of temptation and materialism in your life, urging you to confront and understand your deeper motivations.

Reversed Devil as a Person

If the Devil reversed appears in a Tarot spread as a person, that means that this person is breaking free from restrictions, overcoming temptations, or confronting their shadow side. This reversal indicates a shift from bondage to liberation, a journey towards self-awareness and breaking free from negative patterns. The Devil reversed person is in the process of challenging their darker traits and seeking a path towards redemption and self-improvement.

For physical characteristics, the Devil reversed as a person represents someone who may appear less imposing or losing their grip over their usually controlled appearance. Their presence might suggest a state of transition or vulnerability, with signs of relinquishing the tightly held control they once had. This change can manifest in a softer, more approachable demeanor, reflecting their inner transformation.

For emotional characteristics, the Devil reversed as a person represents someone who is struggling with inner conflicts, breaking free from negative patterns, or seeking redemption. They may be grappling with guilt, regret, or the consequences of past actions, leading to a period of introspection and emotional reckoning. This individual’s journey involves facing their demons, striving to find a healthier and more authentic emotional state.

Astrologically, the Devil reversed as a person represents someone who is dealing with the challenging aspects of Capricorn, like overcoming materialism or authoritarian tendencies. Their astrological influences may push them to reassess their priorities and values, moving away from a sole focus on material success towards a more balanced and ethical approach to life. The challenge for this person lies in integrating Capricorn’s positive traits of discipline and responsibility while shedding the negative aspects of material obsession and rigidity.

For careers, the Devil reversed can represent someone who works in fields where they are moving away from unethical practices or reassessing their materialistic goals. They might be in a period of career transition, seeking roles that align more closely with their evolving values and ethics. This shift often involves a reevaluation of what truly matters in their professional life, moving away from solely material success towards a more fulfilling and balanced path.

The Devil reversed as a person represents someone who makes you feel a sense of liberation from previously binding situations, encouraging personal empowerment and breaking chains. Their presence in your life can be a source of inspiration, highlighting the potential for transformation and growth. Encountering the Devil reversed individual serves as a reminder of the power of overcoming one’s limitations and the importance of pursuing a path of authenticity and self-awareness.

Conclusion

For love readings, the Devil reveals the darker side of lust and desire. Chemistry can be a great thing, but taken to an extreme, can become an addiction. No matter how tempting, unhealthy behavioral patterns ultimately do not produce the results that we want. The Devil serves as a warning sign, urging us to identify and bring the issues out of the dark and into broad daylight. With honest communication, we can build a solid foundation for the future.

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.