The Devil
The Devil card is a complex symbol, embodying themes of self-determination, rebellion, and the interplay between sexual freedom and entrapment. It draws on rich cultural and religious imagery, particularly from Christianity, to explore the demonized feminine and Lucifer's rebellion. Through its depiction of bound lovers, it illustrates the tension between independence and being enslaved by our desires.
Keywords
Cultural Significance
Like Death, the Devil as a concept is incredibly rich and laden with cultural significance and baggage, especially in Western canon. As such, it presented a challenge in articulating my vision of the card and its meaning.
Christian Influence
Christianity is hard to avoid in a card like this, and this time I did not wish to because, as an idea, the Christian Devil is incredibly ripe for interpretation. My Devil is inspired by Lilith, Eve, and the concept of the demonized feminine. I also thought of Lucifer himself, and I wanted to honor him and the complicated concept of rebellion, self-determination, choice, and necessary darkness that he embodies. The art of Hieronymus Bosch was a big inspiration for the final design of the figure itself, and the tongue of the beast between his legs a playful alternative for the genitalia that I wanted visible in the card.
Contradictory Nature
To me, the Devil is a contradiction. It is a card of sexual freedom, but also of being beholden to our lusts. It is a card of treachery and entrapment, and of independence and liberation. Its meaning is difficult to parse out on its own, without the supporting evidence of surrounding cards and circumstances. But I think balance is one of the lessons it teaches.
Self-Determination
Self-determination is another. And I tried to convey both these concepts with the bound lovers who kneel at the Devil’s altar. They are no longer handfasted with red ribbons, but are knotted up in crimson ropes. The lover on the left is bound fiercely. Her position precarious and entirely at the mercy of the leash the Devil holds. The lover on the right, however, has his feet unbound and can break free whenever he so chooses. In fact, he is already endeavoring to do so.
Depiction and Lesson
The Devil himself does not look upon them, but looks out above them, haughty, yet benevolent. He is cruel and mocking, but ready to teach a lesson that will be burned into the flesh.
Fyodor Pavlov tarot
💜 Please support creators. Buy official decks.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
All card images and descriptions are taken from public sources. They are used for review purposes only. All rights to these images and descriptions belong to their creators. If you believe there is a copyright infringement, please contact us at [email protected].