The Devil is the card of attachment. It speaks of what holds you captive — a person, an addiction, a fear — and that only holds you because you haven't let go yet.
What The Devil means
The Devil is arcanum XV and shows the chains we accept. It's not a card of curses: it's a card of dependence, strong desire and situations that are hard to get out of.
In a spread, it points to what takes away your freedom: a toxic relationship, jealousy, money, alcohol, gambling, the need for approval. It also speaks of intense passions, sensuality and very strong physical attraction.
Here's the key: the chains on this card are loose. Whoever is trapped can walk away — whenever they decide to.
The card image
A goat-like figure stands on a pedestal, with two people chained at its feet. The chains hang loosely around their necks and could be taken off. The goat is instinct without control; the loose chains show that the prison is, for the most part, chosen.
The Devil in love
In love, it speaks of strong attraction and bonds that are hard to break. It can point to a relationship with lots of desire but little peace, jealousy, dependence or a secret affair. It isn't always negative: for stable couples, it shows passion and intimacy. What it asks for is honesty about what you're really living.
What do they feel for me? The Devil in feelings
For “what do they feel for me?”, The Devil shows intense desire and a touch of obsession. This person thinks about you a lot and feels you under their skin, but the feeling is mixed with control, jealousy or self-interest. It's strong, not light.
The Devil at work
At work, it points to situations that trap you: a job you hate but depend on, abusive contracts, toxic environments. It asks you to weigh the price you're paying for security.
The Devil and money
In finances, it warns about debt, easy credit and compulsive spending. Beware of offers that are too good to be true.
The Devil reversed
Reversed, it's liberation: breaking a dependence, leaving a relationship, seeing clearly what was holding you back. It's one of the best reversals in the deck.
Combinations with other cards
The Devil with The Lovers: an overwhelming passion with a risk of dependence.
The Devil with The Tower: a sudden break that frees you from a prison.
The Devil with the Eight of Swords: feeling trapped with no way out in sight — but the way out exists.
The Devil in a yes-or-no reading
In Yes or No Tarot, The Devil answers no. The full answer, with the why, depends on your question.
Mestre Cruz's advice
Take a good look at whatever you say you can't let go of. Ask yourself who put that chain there. The key is on your side.
Frequently asked questions
Does The Devil mean black magic?
No. In tarot, The Devil speaks of attachment, dependence and intense desire, not spells.
Is The Devil always bad in love?
Not always. For couples, it can show passion and strong attraction. It turns negative when there's dependence or jealousy.
Is The Devil a yes or a no?
The answer is no — or a yes that comes at a high price.