15 - The Devil

Note: This guide is based on the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck. Other tarot decks may have unique meanings, or some of these meanings may not apply.

The Devil on this card is reminiscent of Baphomet. He perches on a narrow altar with bird-like feet and hairy legs. His chest is bare. His head is that of a goat, with long horns crowned by an inverted pentagram, and his wings are those of a bat. One of his hands is raised, and the other, holding a lit torch, points downwards.

At his feet are two demons with chains wrapped around their throats that lock to the black altar. One demon has breasts and a vulva, depicted with a fruiting tail. The other is decpicted with a penis and a tail that ends in flames.

The symbolism in this card is reminiscent of the Lovers card, having the same general layout with key details swapped to alter their meanings. The Devil also is mirroring the pose of the Magician -- the same Hermetic "as above, so below" philosophy that suggests that whatever occurs in the physical realm also occurs in the spiritual realm, and vice versa.

In Readings: Upright

In the upright position, the Devil is in strong command over his subjects. The demons shown on the card cannot escape; they are chained to the Devil's altar and beholden to his whims.

This card suggests that someone is exerting undue influence over another. They are using what power they have to control others, manipulate outcomes, and force their will into being. This isn't necessarily an evil thing, but this sort of influence isn't always viewed favorably.

Another possible interpretation of this card would be engagement in materialism or vice. The pleasures of the flesh, if you will. Whether these temptations are simple indulgence or part of a larger pattern of control depends on the situation.

Card Combinations:

Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.

The Fool: Someone in power is taking advantage of another's lack of experience for their own ends.

Knight of Swords, reversed: You are your own worst influence, lashing out because of feelings of inadequacy.

Two of Pentacles: You'll have to balance your own will and someone else's, mostly because you can't easily get rid of them.

Queen of Cups, reversed: Somebody's pretending to be a sweetie pie when they're really a huge asshole.

In Readings: Reversed

When reversed, the chains locking these demons in place become lax or even broken. There is a weakness in the control being lorded over the subject, and they may have an opportunity to break free of unwanted influences while this card is in play. This implies a new freedom or independence which may be a long time coming.

This may also indicate someone who is turning away from vice or material comforts for some reason. They are denying these things to themselves, whether they mean to or not. It could be for altruistic reasons such as sobriety or self-control, but it may also be caused by feelings of unworthiness or fear of losing control.

Card Combinations

Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.

Eight of Swords: If you aren't a Puritan, you don't need to restrain yourself like one.

Two of Cups, reversed: It's time to end this unhealthy relationship.

The High Priestess, reversed: Long-kept secrets will come to light and reveal a weakness you can exploit to free yourself.

Page of Swords: Examine your morals with clear, even-handed honesty - what do you really believe in, and why?

Other Perspectives

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