First things first, don’t be afraid if you’ve pulled the card of demise! Along with the Tower and the Devil, Death is one of the most feared cards in a Tarot deck. This is normal since most people fear dying and any card representing such a thing would naturally be viewed as negative.
Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be so. The ‘demise’ represented by this Major Arcana card is almost always a symbolic one, symbolizing the end to situations and connections that no longer serve us in a positive way.
If you’ve drawn the Death card in a reading, resist the urge to reshuffle the deck. A potent message is being presented and it’s time to listen to what is being said.
Demise Tarot Card Key Words
Before delving deeper into the erect and reversed Death card meaning, and its connection to love, career, and life, below a quick overview of the most important words connected to this Major Arcana card.
| Erect | Conclusion of a cycle, transformations, getting rid of excess, forceful movement |
| Reversed | Opposing change, fear of new beginnings, recurring negative patterns |
| Yes or No | Yes |
Demise Tarot Card Description
The image displayed on the face of the Death card shows a Grim-reaper-like skeleton riding on a white horse. He wears a suit of armor and is holding a black flag with a white, floral pattern and the Roman Numerals XIII (thirteen). His posture and suit show his dominance and inability to be defeated.
The Skeleton’s surroundings are just as important to the overall meaning of the card. As the different genders, classes, and ages of those shown affected by Death remind us the final ending is the one thing over which money and power have little influence.
In the background, a boat sails down towards the sun, which symbolizes new beginnings and hope. It serves as a reminder that transformation can happen all the time. Just as the sun sets, it also rises and it’s a cycle that never ends.
Demise Tarot Card Meaning Erect
One of the reason’s that the Death card is such a powerful one in the Erect position is because it carries so many different meanings. For many readings, the Erect Demise tarot card signifies completing a chapter, putting the past behind you, and cutting out what is unnecessary.
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It can also indicate a transition or intermediate territory between one stage of life and the next. The crucial element is to welcome the Death card in a tarot spread instead of avoiding it.
What path is number thirteen attempting to direct you towards? After all, there is no fresh inception without a conclusion.
Wealth and Occupation Significance
Embrace alteration of the Death tarot card appears in the context of your employment! If you are dissatisfied at work, in your current profession, or with your monetary circumstance, you don’t have to ‘accept things passively.’
This might entail resigning from your job, filing for bankruptcy or concentrating on credit restoration, or selling a home.
The Contemporary Approach Tarot®
You possess authority over your life and the manner in which you respond to every hindrance that comes your way.
The Death Tarot card urges you to eliminate what isn’t necessary, do what you can, and embrace what can’t be avoided. It appears as though it is time for an ending and a rebirth in every facet of your life.
Love and Partnership Significance
Death and love in tarot readings indicate difficulty, particularly if you are contemplating whether to stay or depart. However, the Death card doesn’t have to represent a current relationship.
In truth, it can also signify the need to let go of a past love or anguish that is influencing the future. This is particularly applicable to single individuals who desire to begin dating anew.
If your relationship is toxic or you and your partner are incompatible, it may be time to acknowledge this and move forward.
On the contrary, if you genuinely believe you have discovered your soulmate, you must both bury your past and embrace a new beginning that is not tainted by yesterday’s troubles.
Well-being & Spirituality Significance
Don’t panic! The Death tarot card seldom represents physical demise, even in a well-being reading. Instead, it signifies significant changes that must be implemented if you desire to reach a state of optimal health.
Are there actions you can take that may appear challenging, such as eating better or abstaining from alcohol consumption, that might enhance your current condition? If so, commence making these adjustments.
Divinatory readings encompassing mortality require abandoning outdated modes of thinking. If you desire to live in a genuine manner, you must set aside thoughts and patterns that no longer have utility. Prioritize spiritual growth. Engage in reading, contemplation, and exploration of universal principles.
Meaning of Death Reversed
The Death Tarot card in reverse is akin to the upright Death card in that it signifies a path of transformative change. However, when the card appears upside down, it introduces an additional element: significant resistance. I believe that all individuals have the tendency to resist this phenomenon.
While we may like to believe that we “embrace change,” how do we react when faced with job loss, a spouse requesting a divorce, or our children falling ill? Does a financial setback or a major car problem throw us into disarray?
If the Death card appears reversed, take a moment to ask yourself, what am I evading letting go of? Meditate on this question, and the path of least resistance will reveal itself.
Death Tarot: Affirmative or Negative
Certain Tarot experts may deem Death to be a negative card in a yes or no reading, but I believe that the answer is not so straightforward. It genuinely depends on the specific question at hand.
If you are inquiring about whether to hold onto something to which you are connected but concerned about, such as a challenging relationship or work situation, the answer is “no, cut your losses.”
However, if you are seeking guidance regarding a potential fresh start, such as leaving your job and embarking on your own business venture, the answer is more positive.
Significant Card Pairings
The Death card signifies the conclusion of a cycle and symbolizes transitions. When combined with other cards, it commonly indicates the conclusion of an era. Below, you will find the most important combinations involving the Death tarot card.
Death and the Lovers Card or the Hierophant
When Death is paired with either the Lovers or the Hierophant, changes in relationships are inevitable. Frequently, this indicates a breakup or divorce. Even if you remain together, things will not remain unchanged.
If the ending is not what you desire, remember that pain is temporary. The conclusion of one relationship often paves the way for an even better one, if we choose to accept and allow it.
Death and the World
This combination with the World tarot card represents attainment. Something into which you have invested considerable time and energy will soon reach its conclusion.
This does not necessarily signify a negative outcome.
It’s merely time to progress to far superior altitudes. The conclusion of a chapter is the initial stride in that course.
Demise and the Demon
The Demon and Death cards–what a combination! The Demon often signifies dependency. When linked to Demise, the Demon can symbolize victory over such battles. Although this can be associated with substance abuse, there are numerous other scenarios.
For instance, these two cards might indicate overcoming a sickness or breaking free from a toxic relationship. It may also imply quitting a detrimental habit like smoking, overeating, or gambling.
Demise and the Lunar Body
If you seek a message from Demise and the Lunar Body, this is it: there is illumination at the conclusion of the passage. When situations are incredibly challenging or change appears inevitable and unbearable, endeavor to maintain your focus on your desires, not the reality.
Doing so may seem counterproductive, but it will enable you to make decisions based on what brings you delight rather than agony. Ultimately, embracing faith over apprehension will empower you to manifest your utmost aspirations.
Demise Tarot Card Inspiration
Although I compose all the explanations based on the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, it doesn’t imply that I utilize other decks as well. One of my cherished pastimes is browsing the internet for exquisite tarot decks and cards.
Here you can discover a small selection of breathtaking Demise tarot cards. If you have created your own tarot card and wish to share it, I would love to hear from you!
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Natasja van Gestel via Behance.net
Adru Garlov via Behance.net
Demise Tarot Card in a Reading
“Don’t dread the harvester.” His scythe may appear drastic and frightening, but Demise is here to assist you in evolving and providing you with valuable life teachings.
You are on the verge of undergoing a significant transformation, and the cards presented in front of you reveal the manner and reason behind its arrival.
Embrace the concept of Death, and you will be astonished by the rewards it can offer.
Does our understanding of the Death tarot card strike a chord with you? Our community (including myself) eagerly awaits your insights, so kindly spare a moment to share your thoughts in the comments section below!
