Understanding the Devil Card

After the Death Card, the most ominous card in the Tarot to most people is the Devil Card. And why shouldn't it be? All of our lives most of us have been taught that the Devil and Evil are interchangeable. How can a card emblazoned with this face of Evil not be an inherently bad thing?

It's important to remember just what it is that brought this reputation to the Devil. Think back to all of the stories you've heard about him and his wicked ways, the kind your Grandmother might have told you when you asked for a scary story before bed. What is it that made those tales so terrifying?

The answer is trickery. Above everything else, the Devil is the ultimate trickster. He's not forcing misfortune or suffering upon anyone. He's tricking you into choosing it for yourself. He is the ultimate villain, the one who preys upon you in your moment of vulnerability and convinces you to choose to become his victim. This is the most important point to keep in mind when trying to cognize this card. Many people are understandably led to panic when this card appears, feeling that it must mean there is an unavoidable negative presence or evil in their immediate future. But that's not how the Devil works and that's not how you should go about interpreting the card which bears his image.

Now, this is not to say there isn't a negative presence looming when one is interpreting this card. But the question you have to ask yourself is, "What am I allowing myself to be tricked into doing?" You possess the ability to avoid whatever it is the Devil Card may be warning you about; you just need to take the time to see the situation for what it really is. Are you looking at everything in your life from the right perspective? Is there something that deserves a closer look? Perhaps you're omitting a vital detail? Are you taking someone for their word without any real reason to? Are you being taken advantage of, either in career, love, or friendship? Have you allowed yourself to fall under the influence of someone negative and cynical?

It's alright to be cautious. Sometimes in life we get so caught up in the pace of the world that we can be a bit careless with our decision making. It's easy to be lured into the traps set by cynicism and negativity. They can seem downright charming when things get tough. Who wouldn't want to take the easy way out, even if it does seem a little too good to be true?

Take a step back. Don't be afraid to be careful. We need to be reminded of this at times. And ultimately, remember to stay positive! You possess the means to escape from the traps it feels like the world has set for you. Take a deep breath and a closer look. You can only be tricked into the chains that will keep you down if you allow yourself to be!