Some cards make us pause. The Devil is one of them.
When this intense Major Arcana card appears in response to a feelings-related question, such as how someone feels about you, it doesn’t always mean something sinister. But it does ask us to look deeper, beyond surface attraction, and face what might be holding us back, or tying us down.
Let’s explore what the Devil means as feelings, in both its upright and reversed positions.
The Devil upright as Feelings
When upright, the Devil often speaks of obsession, temptation, and desire, emotions that can be magnetic yet unhealthy. Someone represented by the Devil may feel deeply drawn to you, but not always in a way that’s emotionally free or grounded.
It could indicate lust, intense attachment, or even a feeling of being trapped in the connection. There’s often a push-pull energy present, passion that ignites quickly but may burn out, or lead to patterns of emotional dependence.
You may find that this person:
- Feels possessive or jealous
- Struggles with control or addiction issues
- Is fascinated by you, but avoids deeper emotional vulnerability
- Feels drawn in but afraid to surrender fully
In the context of feelings, the Devil can mean there’s chemistry, sometimes overwhelming, but the person may not be emotionally ready or healthy in their approach.
The Devil Reversed as Feelings
In reversal, the Devil can indicate awareness and release. If someone feels this way about you, they might be recognizing patterns of control, codependency, or emotional manipulation, and wanting to break free.
It might show that:
- They’re gaining clarity about a toxic dynamic
- They want to let go of past fears or limiting beliefs
- They’re seeking freedom from emotional baggage or guilt
In terms of love, reversed Devil feelings can reflect someone who once felt entangled or afraid of vulnerability, but who is now working to reclaim personal power and grow emotionally.
There’s also an energy of forgiveness or healing here, both for self and others.
A Personal Note on the Devil
I used to dread this card. I saw it as a warning or a red flag. But over time, I’ve come to see the Devil as a mirror, showing us what we’re enslaved to, whether it’s patterns, people, or fears.
In relationships, it reminds me to ask: Is this connection empowering or draining? Am I being honest with myself about what I feel, or am I clinging to fantasy?
When the Devil shows up in readings for myself or others, it’s rarely subtle, but it’s always an invitation to reclaim our freedom.
With depth and compassion,
Isabella Vale
P.S. Want to keep exploring how tarot reflects feelings?
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