#15: The Devil
The Devil is the card of temptation, control, and unhealthy attachments. It represents the illusions that keep us stuck—whether it’s fear, addiction, toxic relationships, or self-doubt. This card reminds us that we are not as trapped as we believe; the chains that bind us can be broken. In queer spaces, The Devil speaks to internalized shame, societal pressures, and the ways we sometimes hold ourselves back. It asks us to face what is keeping us small and reclaim our power.
UPRIGHT
Temptation, addiction or unhealthy habits, control and manipulation, fear-based thinking, breaking free
REVERSED
Liberation, breaking free from negative patterns, self-awareness, reclaiming power
The Devil Overview
The Devil represents the seductive pull of things that do not serve us. This could be a toxic relationship, a pattern of self-sabotage, or a limiting belief that keeps you from fully embracing yourself. The power of The Devil lies in illusion—once you recognize the chains, you can remove them.
If The Devil appears in your reading, it may be time to examine where you feel trapped. What fears or habits are keeping you from growth? How can you step into your power and free yourself?
Symbolism and Imagery
The Horned Devil Figure – Represents control, temptation, and shadow aspects.
The Chains Around the Figures’ Necks – Appear tight, but are actually loose enough to be removed, symbolizing self-imposed limitations.
The Torch in The Devil’s Hand – A false light, representing illusions that keep us stuck.
The Inverted Pentagram – Symbolizes imbalance and misuse of power.
Upright Meaning
Upright, The Devil warns of being trapped in cycles that do not serve you. This could be external (toxic relationships, addictions) or internal (fear, shame, self-doubt). Recognizing the problem is the first step toward breaking free.
Reversed Meaning: Liberation and Reclaiming Power
Reversed, The Devil signals liberation. You may be breaking free from limiting beliefs, harmful habits, or toxic situations. This is a time for self-awareness and reclaiming your power.
Final Thoughts
The Devil reminds us that we are never truly trapped. Recognizing what holds us back is the first step toward freedom. You have the power to release yourself—claim it.
#15: The Devil
Queer and Transgender Meaning
The Devil is the weight of shame, fear, and the lies the world tells you about yourself. It is the internalized transphobia, the old beliefs that say you are not enough, the systems that try to keep you small. But it is also a card of power—because once you see the chains, you can break them. This card reminds you that you are not trapped. You are free to reclaim yourself.
UPRIGHT
Shadow work, facing fears, confronting shame, breaking free, reclaiming power
REVERSED
Liberation, releasing shame, breaking toxic cycles, freedom, empowerment
The Devil and the Trans Experience
For many trans people, The Devil represents the weight of internalized oppression. It is the self-doubt, the fear of being seen, the voice that whispers You are not trans enough, you are not valid, you do not deserve this.
This card speaks to the systems that try to control you—whether that is gender norms, religious dogma, family expectations, or medical gatekeeping. The Devil is the external pressures that make you feel small. It is the fear of rejection. The belief that you have to fit into someone else's idea of who you should be.
But The Devil is also a card of awakening. The figures in the card are loosely chained—they could remove the chains at any moment. This is the moment when you realize you do not have to accept the shame the world tries to place on you. You do not have to be trapped in old narratives. You can free yourself.
The Devil asks: What limiting beliefs are holding you back? Where are you still seeking permission to be yourself? How can you reclaim your power?
Symbolism and Imagery
The Devil’s imagery is about oppression, fear, and liberation.
A horned figure sitting on a throne – A symbol of external control—societal expectations, toxic beliefs, the systems that try to define you.
Two figures with loose chains around their necks – They believe they are trapped, but the chains are loose. They could break free if they chose to.
A dark background with fire at the edges – The intensity of fear, shame, and repression. But also the fire of transformation.
A torch in The Devil’s hand – A false light. The illusions and lies that keep people bound.
Upright Meaning: Facing Shame and Breaking Free
When The Devil appears upright, it is a call to face your fears, examine the beliefs that hold you back, and break free from what no longer serves you.
For trans people, this might mean:
Releasing internalized transphobia – Letting go of beliefs that make you feel like you have to prove your identity.
Confronting shame – Acknowledging feelings of unworthiness and working to heal them.
Recognizing toxic relationships or systems – Seeing where you are being held back by external forces.
Owning your power – The moment you realize you are not trapped. You are free to step into your truth.
This card reminds you that shame is a lie. You do not have to carry it anymore.
Reversed Meaning: Liberation and Reclaiming Power
When The Devil appears reversed, you are in the process of breaking free.
For trans people, this can look like:
Letting go of old fears – Realizing that you do not need permission to be yourself.
Reclaiming joy – Finding freedom in your identity instead of shame.
Leaving behind toxic environments – Cutting ties with people or spaces that do not affirm you.
Stepping into empowerment – Fully owning your gender, your truth, and your right to exist.
The Devil reversed is the moment you take the chains off and walk away.
Final Thoughts
The Devil is the reminder that shame is a cage—but you hold the key. It tells you that you are not bound by society’s expectations, and you never were.
This card says: You are not wrong. You are not broken. You are free.