Death Tarot Card Meanings
By M-C
Death Keywords
| Upright Keywords | Reversed Keywords |
|---|---|
| Transformation, Endings, Rebirth, Release, Transition | Resistance to change, Fear of the unknown, Stagnation, Refusal to let go, Lack of transformation |
Death Tarot Card Description
Death holds a potent energy. Observing the somber, skeletal figure on Card 13 can evoke a sense of unease. It represents our deepest fears and greatest mysteries. Often, we shudder at the thought of Death because we associate it with total obliteration. Yet, in tarot—and arguably in life—Death signifies not an absolute cessation, but a passage to a new phase. Life, inherently eternal, transforms its shape. To evolve, progress, and truly live, we must let go of the past to embrace the future. In tarot, it's well understood that Card 13 seldom pertains to literal death. A skilled tarot reader avoids this narrow interpretation, recognizing that Death reflects ongoing transformations, not just in the physical realm but across all aspects of existence. With each passing moment, we leave the current behind, paving the way for what is to come. In tarot readings, the Death card typically marks a significant conclusion that paves the way for substantial change. It heralds the close of one chapter and the inevitable start of another, often accompanied by a mix of sadness and relief, ending and renewal. The card encourages a focus on the essentials, shedding what is superfluous. Death also portrays an unstoppable force, representing unavoidable events and the inevitability of change. When faced with such forces, the wisest course is to embrace our destiny and see where it leads.
The Death card in tarot symbolizes profound transformation and the necessary end of one phase to welcome new beginnings.
Death Upright Meaning
The Death card signifies the completion of a phase or a significant transformation in your life. It represents the need to let go of old patterns, attachments, or beliefs that no longer serve you. It can indicate the end of a relationship, a job, or a way of life, making room for new opportunities and growth. The Death card invites you to embrace change, accept endings, and trust in the cycle of life and transformation.
Death Reversed Meaning
In reverse, Death warns against fear of change, stagnation, or an inability to move forward in life. It may suggest a resistance to necessary transformations, holding onto outdated beliefs or patterns, or avoiding necessary endings. It calls for embracing the inevitability of change, surrendering to the process of transformation, and releasing attachments to facilitate personal growth and rebirth. It invites you to embrace the opportunities that arise from letting go and trust in the transformative power of endings.
Death Affirmation
I release the old to make way for transformation and new beginnings.
Death Correspondances
| Elements | Water |
| Numerology | It is associated with the number 13. The number 13 in numerology holds significant transformative energy. It represents the completion of a cycle and the potential for rebirth and new beginnings. It symbolizes the shedding of old patterns, beliefs, or situations to make way for growth and renewal. |
| Astrology | It is associated with the planet Mars and the astrological sign of Scorpio. |
| Yes / No Meaning | No |
| Crystals | Apache tear, Bloodstone, Snakestone, Obsidian, Black tourmaline, Amber, Zebra stone |
Death Summary: Love
| Upright Summary: Love | Reversed Summary: Love |
|---|---|
| Letting go of past relationships and patterns. Embracing change to find new love. Significant transformation within an existing relationship. | Resistance to change in love life. Relationship stagnation and repetitive cycles. Need for introspection and letting go. |
Death Upright Meaning: Love
Searching for Love:
The Death card in an upright position signifies transformation and new beginnings when searching for love. It suggests that old patterns or past relationships that no longer serve you need to be left behind. Embracing change and letting go of the past will open the door to new, more fulfilling romantic possibilities.
In Relationships:
For those in a relationship, the Death card upright indicates a period of significant change. This could mean the end of certain aspects of the relationship that are no longer working, leading to a healthier dynamic. Alternatively, it can signal a complete transformation, such as moving in together, getting married, or overcoming a major obstacle together.
Death Reversed Meaning: Love
Searching for Love:
When the Death card appears reversed in a love reading, it signifies a resistance to change and an inability to move forward. You may be clinging to past relationships or old patterns that are hindering your ability to find new love. This card suggests the need for introspection and a willingness to let go of past hurts to allow new love to enter your life.
In Relationships:
In the context of an existing relationship, the reversed Death card points to stagnation and a lack of progress. It indicates that the relationship may be stuck in a rut, with unresolved issues or repetitive cycles causing frustration. This card urges both partners to address these issues openly and to be willing to make necessary changes to rejuvenate the relationship.
Advice:
The reversed Death card advises you to embrace change and release the past. It’s a call to confront fears and to be open to transformation. By letting go of what no longer serves you, whether in the search for love or within a current relationship, you create space for growth and new opportunities.
Death Summary: Career
| Upright Summary: Career | Reversed Summary: Career |
|---|---|
| Embrace the change as it is necessary for your growth and advancement. Acknowledge what has ended and prepare for what comes next. This could be a new job, a new role within your current organization, or a completely new career path. | Death reversed in career indicates stagnation and resistance to change. Fear of the unknown and missed opportunities can hold you back. Acceptance and inner transformation are key to overcoming these challenges. |
Death Upright Meaning: Career
Transformation:
The Death card in the upright position signifies a major transformation in your career. This could be the end of a current job, role, or project, making way for new opportunities. Embrace the change as it is necessary for your growth and advancement.
Endings:
You might experience the conclusion of a significant phase in your professional life. This ending is not necessarily negative; it can mean the completion of a project or the closure of a business deal. It’s a time to acknowledge what has ended and prepare for what comes next.
New Beginnings:
With endings come new beginnings. The Death card encourages you to look forward to new prospects and embrace the chance to start afresh. This could be a new job, a new role within your current organization, or a completely new career path.
Release:
Let go of old habits, outdated strategies, or any professional baggage that may be holding you back. This is a period to release what no longer serves you in your career, making space for more beneficial and productive approaches.
Transformation in Perspective:
You might find your attitude towards your career shifting. This could mean a change in your professional goals, values, or what you seek in your work life. Embrace this shift as it aligns you more closely with your true path and professional fulfillment.
Death Reversed Meaning: Career
Transition and Transformation:
When the Death card appears reversed in a career reading, it signifies a period of stagnation and resistance to change. You may find yourself clinging to old ways and resisting necessary transitions. This could lead to feeling stuck in your current position, unable to move forward or achieve growth.
Fear of Change:
There is often a fear associated with the unknown, and this card suggests that you might be avoiding necessary changes due to fear. This can manifest as reluctance to leave an unfulfilling job or to take on new responsibilities. Overcoming this fear is crucial to progress.
Missed Opportunities:
The reversed Death card can indicate missed opportunities because of an unwillingness to embrace change. It's a reminder that holding onto the past can prevent you from seizing new prospects. Reflect on what opportunities you might be letting slip by due to your resistance.
Need for Acceptance:
Accepting that change is a natural part of career growth is essential. This card suggests a need to acknowledge and embrace the inevitability of change. Doing so will help you break free from the stagnation and move towards more fulfilling career paths.
Reevaluation and Redirection:
This card prompts you to reevaluate your current career trajectory. It might be time to redirect your efforts and consider new paths that you previously dismissed. Open yourself to new possibilities and consider whether your current path aligns with your true aspirations.
Inner Transformation:
The reversed Death card also speaks to the need for inner transformation. Personal growth and development are key to overcoming career stagnation. Focus on self-improvement and be willing to change your mindset to adapt to new challenges.
Summary:
Reversed Death in career indicates stagnation and resistance to change. It suggests fear of the unknown and missed opportunities. Acceptance and inner transformation are key to overcoming these challenges.
Death Summary: Health
| Upright Summary: Health | Reversed Summary: Health |
|---|---|
| The Death card upright signifies transformation. Endings are necessary for new beginnings. Embrace changes for better health. | Making significant lifestyle changes is essential. Address chronic ailments promptly. Seek new therapies to break mental stagnation. |
Death Upright Meaning: Health
The Death card upright in a health reading suggests a period of transformation. It may indicate the end of a period of illness or bad habits and the start of a healthier lifestyle. This card encourages letting go of old patterns and embracing new, healthier ways of living.
Mental Health:
In terms of mental health, the Death card upright can symbolize the end of negative thinking patterns. It encourages seeking help or adopting new methods to improve mental well-being. This is a time for renewal and positive changes in mental health practices.
Physical Health:
For physical health, the Death card suggests the conclusion of harmful behaviors or illnesses. It can indicate a major shift in how one takes care of their body, leading to better health. This is a time for adopting new, healthier habits.
Advice:
The Death card advises embracing change rather than fearing it. This period of transition is necessary for growth and improvement in health. Accepting the end of old habits will lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Summary:
Transformation is key. Embrace new beginnings. Let go of the past for better health.
Death Reversed Meaning: Health
The Death card reversed in a health reading indicates resistance to change, stagnation, and fear of the unknown. It suggests clinging to old habits that are detrimental to your well-being.
Physical Health:
Reversed Death warns of the consequences of neglecting health issues. It highlights the importance of addressing chronic ailments rather than ignoring them, as they might worsen over time.
Mental Health:
This card signifies a refusal to let go of negative thought patterns. It encourages seeking new perspectives or therapies to break free from mental stagnation.
Emotional Well-being:
Emotionally, the Death card reversed suggests being stuck in past traumas or unresolved emotions. It urges taking steps towards healing and letting go of past hurts.
Lifestyle and Habits:
A key message here is the need to adopt healthier habits and make significant lifestyle changes. Resistance to these changes can lead to prolonged issues and discomfort.
Spiritual Health:
Spiritually, this card reversed indicates a blockage or resistance to growth. It suggests being open to transformation and new spiritual insights for overall well-being.