The Devil

The Devil, with regard to the Tarot, is not a thing to be feared.  This card shows everyone that there are addictions we all face.  The Devil represents being stuck in a situation because of the fears we have about ourselves and others.  When we are being weighted down and unable to become mobile is an example of that is symbolic of this card.  Feeling as though we are the only one who can bear the responsibility and thereby becoming mired and tangled in it is shown by The Devil.  The adage, “The Devil is in the details” is very true with regard to the Tarot’s own Devil.

Upright:  The Devil represents focusing too intensely on one thing.  This is the card of obsessions and addictions.  This could mean we are obsessed with people or addicted to anything.  Absolute power corrupts absolutely.  The Devil represents controlling the situation for the purpose of self-gain.  An extreme focus on sexuality is represented here.   To associate with The Devil is to court the possessive side of our nature.  The Devil reminds us all of what it is to be so singularly focused we cannot see the forest for the trees.  It may be hard but we can release ourselves from the chains holding us close to The Devil.   From being infatuated with sports teams, a band or style of music, to an old flame and beyond; we have all experienced this dark side from time to time and we will see it again.  This is what The Devil represents.

Reversed:  The Devil reversed indicates that old fears are falling away.  We are reclaiming our personal power!  No one else can free us from our fears.  The Devil represents the personal rebuilding process akin to that of any natural disaster.  This card is about getting back on track after overcoming a hard fight.  He-Man’s battle cry, “I have the power!” is representative of The Devil when reversed.  Those who are fighting the addiction or obsession in order to get back on track again are represented by The Devil reversed.  We are in control; not our fears.  The Devil may have us chained, but as soon as we realize that the power lies within; we are free to again explore without constraint.  Nothing can hold us back now!