Understanding the Devil
In my many years reading tarot, I cannot remember ever drawing the Devil card in a personal reading. Ironically however, this was the card that made me most terrified to own a tarot deck. As I shared in the first blog in this series, I was so affected by the divisive and very black and white religious views that tarot itself was the work of “The Devil.” I was afraid that the very presence of this image would sweep me over to the dark side.
Geeze. Seriously, what’s a more effective tactic for control than programing extreme fear and guilt into your people as a “norm”?
Now I see how essential it is that we give attention to that shadow within us. That shadow has so much to share, glimmers of our heart's innermost desires and the possibility of bliss and joy.
In the symbolism of tarot, it’s necessary to look “the Devil” in the eyes and see the wisdom of self-examination. The Devil represents what we are often afraid to look at – the shadow side, the seductions of life, the deep shame we feel in so much of our human experience. Yet, also in that shadow side is acceptance, liberation from fear, and the bliss of understand we have everything we need within us.
What if we were able to look that shame and fear in the eyes and love it anyway?
What if we self-healed the relationship with the Devil within us rather than running from it?
What if we didn't allow the Devil within to control, but rather to inform us of our own sovereign power?
What if?
Symbolism & Interpretation
The Devil tarot card is one of the most misunderstood cards in the deck. Many people associate it with evil, temptation, and wrongdoing. However, the Devil card has a deeper meaning that is rooted in our human nature and the struggles we face in life.
The Devil card depicts a figure that is often depicted as a horned beast or a demonic creature. It is usually surrounded by flames and has two humans, one male and one female, chained to its throne. At first glance, this card may seem ominous and threatening. However, the symbolism behind the card is much more complex.
The Devil card represents our primal urges and desires. It is a reminder that we are all capable of being seduced by material possessions, power, and pleasure. The card encourages us to examine our own lives and identify areas where we may be giving in to temptation or allowing our desires to control us.
One of the most important messages of the Devil card is the concept of bondage. The chains that bind the two humans to the Devil's throne represent the ways in which we can become trapped by our own desires. We may feel like we are unable to break free from the things that hold us back, whether it is an addiction, a toxic relationship, or an unhealthy pattern of behavior.
The Devil card challenges us to break free from these bonds and take control of our lives. It reminds us that we have the power to overcome our primal urges and become the masters of our own destiny.
Affirmation: "I embrace my power and find liberation."
Keywords: Temptation, Materialism, and the Shadow Side of Humanity.
Reflection Questions:
What areas of your life do you feel like you are giving in to temptation or allowing your desires to control you?
What habits or behaviors do you have that are preventing you from reaching your full potential?
What are some ways you can break free from the things that hold you back and take control of your life?
How can you use the lessons of the Devil tarot card to improve your relationships with power, desire, and balance?
Here in the Living LUNA community, our theme for April is “Sowing the Seeds of Curiosity!” Throughout the month of April, we'll explore the journey of the Fool alongside the symbolism of the Major Arcana cards from Tarot. Each archetype offers opportunities for self-reflection! Follow along or participate in our community by joining our Discord server at: https://discord.gg/5UkGZb9kYp
