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Many clients get frightened when they see the Death card in a spread. Despite its quite radical name, this Major Arcana has nothing critically negative. Most often, it refers to changes, transformations, and opportunities that can lead to a positive outcome. And this is not always the beginning of a new chapter; it can simply be the end of a past stage. Therefore, to avoid mistakes and misunderstandings, it is important to know the meanings of Death in Tarot, how it is interpreted in various readings, and what advice it can give to the querent.
Death is a Major Arcana card. Clients are also alarmed by the fact that it is numbered 13, which often has a negative connotation. The card is also called the Reaper, the Grim Rider, the Valkyrie, or Transformation. Sometimes it is referred to as Mortality or Thirteen. The card depicts a skeleton on a white horse – a mediator between two worlds. People of different ages and statuses are shown to symbolize that Death is equal to all. On the flag held by the dark Reaper is a white rose, symbolizing a new beginning. The same message is conveyed by the rising sun on the horizon: to be reborn, one must complete the cycle that has begun. Figuratively – to die.
When reading Tarot cards, it is important to consider several points. First, the position of the card: it can be upright or reversed. Second, which cards appeared alongside Death. The meaning can change dramatically if other Major Arcana are nearby. Third, the phrasing of the question is crucial. The querent should focus on what concerns them and be tuned to receive a sign from above.
Tarot card combinations with Death
The surrounding cards in a spread can significantly alter the meaning of the Tarot card. “Neighbors” can give the arcana a more positive or more negative nuance. Only knowledge of these nuances will help correctly interpret the advice that the Universe is giving to the querent at this moment. There can be many interpretations: it is individual. However, there are several common combinations with Death Tarot that can help understand the meaning of the spread correctly. The most popular interpretations are presented in the table:
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The MagicianYou can emerge from a difficult situation, but you need to be patient.
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The EmpressA loss is expected, but it will lead to an even more important discovery.
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The EmperorMajor changes are expected in your career.
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The LoversA pivotal moment is approaching in your personal life: you will need to make an important choice.
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The ChariotIt’s the right time to ensure that the direction chosen was correct.
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The HermitSpending time alone now is a necessity. It will help you undergo the necessary transformation.
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StrengthYou need to pull yourself together. Difficulties may lie ahead.
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TemperanceIt is time to rest. There were losses in the past. Now it is necessary to give yourself time and gather new strength.
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The SunThe period promises to be fruitful. Positive changes are possible in professional life and relationships.
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The JudgmentPast mistakes will not correct themselves. If you close this chapter, energy will emerge for new achievements.
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The WorldIt is necessary to sum up your life. Enemies and unpleasant moments from the past should be let go. But you need to do this gently, forgiving all grievances.
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The FoolBe cautious of accidents.
With Wands, the thirteen Major Arcana combinations are not very optimistic. For example, it could indicate illness of a relative, dampening of joy, or slowing down of changes. With Cups, Death Tarot combinations are more positive. Possible favorable deals, passion, and a new admirer. Pentacles with the Reaper mainly indicate financial loss. Swords and Death signify ruin, bachelorhood, misfortune, and losses.
Reversed Death Tarot: main meanings
The variety of interpretations of the Death arcana depends on its position. The classic format is when the card appears upright. If the image seems to be upside down, then it is in a reversed position. In this case, the meaning of the arcana changes significantly. Reversed Death Tarot generally carries a more negative connotation. It predicts a depressive mood. In such a state, a person cannot accept the situation, which only makes life more difficult for them.
The reversed card symbolizes a situation where a person does not allow a favorable ending to occur. They feel apathy and disappointment. The arcana can also foretell danger, which, fortunately, the querent may be able to avoid.
The reversed Death Tarot behaves differently in various spreads. The most popular interpretations are presented in the table:
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RelationshipsDo not expect love to flare up with renewed strength. No feelings remain. The querent will be in despair when their partner leaves them. This indicates a painful attachment. The person has no desire to influence the situation or to endure the breakup with dignity and greater calm.
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CareerThe querent is reluctant to take a step forward. They realize they have chosen the wrong professional path. However, they are not trying to correct the situation. This will lead to disappointments.
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FinancesA minor crisis is possible. It will quickly end and will not impact the querent’s budget.
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HealthIn this matter, reversed Death Tarot is a good sign. Surgeries will be successful, with no consequences or complications. There are no health risks.
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The card of the dayYou need to free yourself from burdens: many opportunities lie ahead.
In Mary Greer’s “The Complete Book of Reversed Tarot Cards,” the reversed Death card signifies a pessimistic outlook. This means that the situation is not necessarily hopeless, but the querent will be convinced that there is no way out. Such a depressing feeling, even in happy circumstances, can spoil the mood.
Meaning of the Death Tarot in a relationship spread
In love and relationships, Death signifies the end of a life stage. If the Dark Reaper appears in the spread, it means you should prepare for changes. Despite the intimidating atmosphere surrounding the card, the changes promise to be positive. The main thing the querent needs to do is go with the flow and allow events to conclude smoothly. It is not worth trying to hold on to the past. If it is not meant to be, it is better to let it go.
- . Spouses may expect a divorce. However, this only applies if the partners realize that there is no longer love, passion, or romance in their relationship. Former spouses will end their connection on friendly terms.
- . If the querent is considering whether to end the relationship, Death will serve as a signal to part ways. It means that it is time to build a new life with another person.
- . The card advises single people to trust fate. If a meeting has occurred and a relationship has begun, do not refuse it out of fear of loss. However, there is no need to rush.
- . Partners feel that the time for transformation has come. Now is the perfect moment to reevaluate your values and change for the sake of your loved one. The push is there, and now the partners must decide for themselves whether they are ready for change.
The reversed Death Tarot in relationships has a negative interpretation. It can indicate painful attachment, breakup, or disappointments. The querent may be unable to break free from a vicious cycle and continues to live in apathy.
Meaning of the Death Tarot in a man’s feelings
The Death card in the Tarot is considered one of the most mysterious and ambiguous. It reveals a whole spectrum of feelings and emotions that the queried man may experience. To interpret the meaning of the thirteenth arcana correctly, the question must be formulated properly. When upright, Death in relation to a man’s feelings is a positive sign; when reversed, it is negative.
If the Reaper appears in a spread about a man, it indicates that he understands the need for change. For the querent, this can be both good and bad. He might be contemplating a breakup. This interpretation is relevant if the woman asking the question also senses that the relationship has reached an impasse. Conversely, it could also signify a desire to move forward. But for that, the man needs to deal with his past, which is not easy. He must analyze his fears, admit vulnerability, and open up to a new person.
When a man thinks about the querent, he realizes that she has changed his life. He is scared because this could lead to personal changes he is not yet ready for. The unknown is always frightening. And men find it difficult to admit their fears.
Death Tarot: woman’s characteristics
Death Tarot: woman’s characteristics
The woman with the energy of the Death arcana loves risk. She is always in motion. She is not afraid of dangers. However, boring and monotonous activities do not attract her. She can organize any event and is ready to venture into an adventure. But it is important for her that everything has a purpose; otherwise, she is not willing to waste her time.
The woman with Death Tarot does not like hypocrites. She finds it easier to communicate with tactless people but not with liars and flatterers. She easily adapts to any circumstances. She tends to predict events, so she is always prepared for any outcome. A woman with the energy of the Reaper repeatedly changes her worldview throughout her life. Each time, she seems to be reborn from the ashes. It is not difficult for her to say “Goodbye” to the old.
A woman with the energy of the thirteenth arcana loves progress. She is familiar with all the latest technologies. She easily applies innovations in practice. She keeps up with fashion and prefers to stay trendy.
In relationships, a woman with the energy of the Reaper needs activity. At first, her partner may agree to frequent adventures, but over time, stability becomes necessary. If she does not get what she desires, she might start looking elsewhere.
Among the disadvantages of a woman with the energy of the Reaper is pressure on close ones. If she herself struggles with transformations, she pressures others because she has an innate drive for change. She may also be overly concerned about her health and panically fear death.
Death Tarot: spread for thoughts
The Major Arcana number 13 is closely connected to thought processes. It helps a person see the difference between death and life, the end and the beginning. The arcana describes a rational individual who enjoys analyzing situations and drawing various conclusions. They constantly think about change. The completion of life chapters does not scare them. They understand that transformations are a key part of life that cannot be hindered.
- . Changes are a positive thing. They promote progress. Thanks to changes, new good memories and feelings emerge.
- . Crises do not last forever. Behind the dark period, there is always a bright one.
- . Every human action has consequences. This is the law of life.
To live in harmony with oneself, it is necessary to be able to analyze the past. But looking at it should be done without regret, drawing lessons and understanding mistakes.
A person in a “negative” state is characterized by constant thoughts about death. They begin to panic about illnesses, accidents, old age. It seems to them that life has not even truly started, but has already ended. This leads to apathy, irritability, and anxiety. Fear can cause the opposite actions: the person starts to recklessly risk their life. Thoughts of suicide may also appear.
Advice of the Death Tarot card
The advice from the Death Tarot card is: “Prepare for change, it is inevitable.” The card prepares the querent for the fact that their current life stage will soon come to an end. The person understands which area this pertains to—relationships, career, health, etc. The Dark Reaper advises to stop living in the past and to allow transformations to unfold. If you let something important finish, rebirth will follow, making life much easier.
The card suggests loosening your grip. If a relationship has outlived its purpose, it’s the right time to break it off so you don’t miss your true love. The arcana indicates that you should try to stay calm, even if everything around is collapsing. The unknown is frightening, but accepting the situation is necessary to clear the way for new achievements. For entrepreneurs, for example, the Death card’s advice might relate to closing a business. This is relevant for small companies. Now is the best time to start a larger firm.
Larisa Mun, in her work “All Secrets of Tarot,” notes that when the Death card appears in a spread, one should be prepared for transformations, no matter how difficult they may be. They can even be felt physically. However, after these changes are completed, the querent will become a completely different person.
When the Death card appears in a health reading, the querent may start to worry.
It seems that the Reaper predicts serious health issues with possible consequences. Indeed, the Death Tarot in health matters indicates significant problems. Treatment may require surgical intervention. The thirteenth arcana is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it signals a possible miscarriage. There may also be a risk of suicidal tendencies in the querent.
However, the Death Tarot in health does not necessarily mean a fatal outcome. It simply warns that destructive processes are currently happening within the body. The card advises consulting a doctor. It points to illnesses with pronounced symptoms, meaning the source of the disease will be identified, and the doctor will prescribe the correct treatment.
The thirteenth arcana indicates problems in the female body. It can also relate to skin diseases or mental health issues. The card recommends paying close attention to your health: if something hurts, it’s not just for no reason.
The reversed Death card in health has a different, positive meaning. It is a good sign. If the querent is about to undergo treatment, it will be successful. The illness will not have any lasting effects. Nothing threatens the health of the querent. The card advises giving up bad habits. It’s an excellent time to change your lifestyle.
Death Tarot: future outlook
Death Tarot in the future has a strong significance. Its symbolic image allows not only understanding the essence of current events but also predicting what will happen soon. However, the thirteenth arcana is not associated with physical death. The main meaning of Death in the future is the inevitability of change. The Reaper symbolizes the end of one chapter and the imminent start of a new one. The card indicates that the past should remain in the past. What is outdated must give way to something new—better and happier.
Death Tarot in the future urges the querent to welcome the new phase calmly. There is no need to fear transformations. Clinging to the past, which has outlived its usefulness, will only make things worse. This applies to all areas of life. In love, the Grim Rider predicts a breakup or divorce. But if the querent accepts the situation, it will cause less pain than expected. Everything will go smoothly and on friendly terms.
The appearance of the Reaper in a future spread indicates upcoming life lessons. It’s necessary to go through this stage and draw conclusions. Fate does not give trials that a person cannot handle.
The reversed Reaper in the future also promises change. However, it hints that the querent will resist transformations, making them much more difficult than they could be. The cleansing will be emotional in nature. It is important to be prepared for possible difficulties.
Death Tarot: description of appearance
Death Tarot: description of appearance
Tarot cards can be used to answer questions like “What will my man look like?” or “How will I recognize my beloved?” If the Death card appears when asking about a partner, you can study its appearance to identify them immediately in a crowd. The Grim Rider describes a person with a melancholic appearance. The card depicts an individual aged 20-40 years. Such a person does not like to stand out from the crowd, but this also makes them noticeable and unique.
The owner of the Death Tarot arcana has a distinctive appearance. They are quite tall and very thin. Sometimes their thinness seems unhealthy, but it does not affect their well-being. They have long, slender fingers. Their hair is usually short, light-colored, with a grayish tint. Women, on the other hand, often have long dark curls. Their eyes are typically brown or gray; green eyes are less common.
A person with the energy of the Death Tarot arcana’s appearance does not reflect their inner world. You might think they are always depressed and anxious, but in reality, they simply do not like to show their mood. Their emotions are a closed book. A smile on their face is a rare guest. Because of this, they are often considered gloomy and unfriendly.
In clothing, such a person prefers classic shades, primarily dark tones. They do not like ostentatious details. The classic look is dark jeans and a gray sweater.
Death Tarot: personality description
The thirteenth arcana describes a person ready for change. They enjoy constantly being in motion. They are open to everything new: knowledge, events, acquaintances. They never find themselves where they do not belong.
- . Adaptability. The person easily adjusts to any situation. They know how to handle difficulties and smoothly transition into a new phase.
- . Risk. The bearer of the Death arcana knows no fear. They prefer extreme and dangerous professions over boring and monotonous activities.
- . Transformation. The person needs to constantly develop. They often encourage others to change as well. Throughout their life, their worldview may change multiple times.
- . Spirituality. Outwardly active, this person is constantly engaged in thought processes. This makes them an excellent mentor.
The thirteenth arcana describes a person who loves to get to the heart of things. Others may notice their difficult character. If their energy is “in the negative,” they may become irritable and constantly anxious. They often think about death, fear illnesses, and accidents.
According to the Death Tarot arcana, a “negative” personality fears change. At the same time, they do not give others a chance to improve their living conditions. They may start to hinder the transformations of loved ones. Sometimes, on the contrary, they motivate others to act, even without the strength to change themselves.
The thirteenth arcana depicts a person who feels they must not only undergo several transformations but also help others to change. To fulfill their mission, they need to forget about the fear of failure and loss, past grievances, and the desire to escape upcoming changes.
Death Tarot: meaning for work
The owner of the 13th arcana finds it important to work according to their calling. They need to feel that they are in the right place. Professions involving risk and a close connection to death suit them well—for example, mountaineer, doctor, or police officer. Additionally, such a person may excel in careers that require constant change or helping others find their path. The bearer of the Reaper’s energy could become a sports coach or manager.
If Death appears in a work-related spread, it is crucial to understand that changes are coming. They cannot be stopped: the querent must accept this. The sooner they accept this fact, the easier it will be for them in the future.
- . The current position provides stability but no satisfaction. It is time to make a change.
- . A crisis is expected in the chosen direction. Small business owners may soon face the closure of their enterprise. However, these current problems will lead to an improvement in the situation and present a profitable opportunity.
- . A person without a job will not be able to find one until they make a sharp leap. They may need to move to another city or meet new people. If they overcome these difficulties, they will be able to find what they have long dreamed of.
Death Tarot in relation to work can have a negative connotation. It predicts dismissal or a prolonged financial crisis. However, as a result, the querent will gain even more than they lose. If they can endure this difficult phase with dignity, luck will favor them.
In the reversed position, the Reaper also foresees upcoming changes. However, it emphasizes that the querent is not ready to make any changes. Therefore, the crisis will last a long time. The Grim Rider tries to ease the person’s life, so it advises them to let go of the past and try to view the upcoming changes from a different perspective.
