The essential meanings of this Major Arcana card from the Rider-Waite-Smith deck.

Upright: The Devil upright represents bondage, temptation, and our shadow selves. It often appears when something (or someone) is exerting an unhealthy influence – such as addiction, materialism, or a toxic relationship. This card reminds you that the chains are often self-imposed; you have the power to free yourself by confronting the truth of what’s holding you back. Upright, The Devil asks you to examine where you feel stuck or obsessed, and to acknowledge your darker impulses so you can regain control.

Reversed: The Devil reversed suggests breaking free from what binds you. It indicates an opportunity to overcome addictions, fears, or negative patterns. You might be realizing that a situation isn’t as trapping as it seemed, or you’re gaining the courage to walk away. In a reversed position, this card is a positive sign of releasing control that external forces or inner demons had over you, reclaiming your power and moving toward a healthier path.

Three Possibilities

The secrets of this card for heart, mind and soul.

Love: In love, The Devil emerges as a shadowy charmer, representing temptation, lust, and entanglement. Two lovers are shown chained at his feet, hinting at an intoxicating bond that may feel thrilling yet restrictive or unhealthy (obsession, jealousy, or codependency). This card warns that desire can become a cage — only by confronting these shadows and acknowledging the chains can you break free, transforming an oppressive connection into one of mutual respect and freedom.

Career: In your career, The Devil signifies chains of materialism or a toxic work situation. You might feel stuck in a job solely for the paycheck, bound by golden handcuffs or fear, or caught in unhealthy power dynamics. This card challenges you to see the illusion of these constraints — by recognizing where you feel trapped (whether by external pressures or your own workaholic habits), you empower yourself to break those chains, restoring control and integrity to your work life.

Spirituality: Spiritually, The Devil represents the shadow self and the illusions that bind you. Doubts, addictions, or material attachments may be clouding your path, making you feel disconnected from the divine. Yet in this darkness lies an opportunity: by shining light on your fears and acknowledging the shadowy chains (which are often looser than they appear), you can liberate your spirit from bondage and reclaim your personal power, stepping back into the light of awareness.