In the beginning, there was a void and darkness in the unknown. Out of the void came a spark of life, one that would lead to creation. Death is a symbol of new beginnings. You see, the soul doesn’t stop when the body dies. It is a spark of Life that is eternal and connected to the Divine.
After the breaking of bread, there was the breaking of the body. It was a life that we were eating – and from life comes more energy. What is left can only be changed, but the energy left after the meal can only be used up. Like bread, time and energy are available for a short ride, then they must be used.
In the Death tarot card, there is both the beginning and the end. It’s as if the world stops, and everything becomes static. There is no life, and one is unable even to change position. Things that are dead must go to the underworld so that the living can continue.
In my mind, there is much more to this card than just the ‘death’ of something.
Characteristics of Death Upright
Positive: new beginnings, transformation, change, spiritual breakthrough, rebirth, letting go, learning to communicate with spirit, releasing limiting beliefs, making adjustments, letting go of pain, making a change, letting go of grief, making adjustments to personal power, learning to trust.
Negative: death, despair, loss, emptiness, failure, abandonment, lack of faith, can’t see beyond the surface, job loss, financial loss, material loss, financial loss, feeling exhausted, lacking energy, feeling old, change of residence, end of love, end of a relationship, breakup, loss, abandonment, divorce, endings, stagnation, feeling stuck, withdrawal, breaking ties.
Description and Symbolism of Death
In Numerology Death card contains number 13, a number of transformation and purging, a number of new beginnings. The Death card, representing a shift in consciousness. When you draw the Death card, you are about to take a significant step in your journey. You are entering a new world where you will have to depend on your own strength and abilities instead of those of others. You will need to be on your own and work independently. The Death card is a message that life ends. In a non-physical life, we all experience death over and over until we go through another level of rebirth. The Death card represents the transition of new beginnings, endings, and the in between. Life is full of transitions and endings. Death is only a part of the cycle of life and death. By accepting our own death and the end of one phase, the Death card reminds us that we can begin anew with every ending.
Astrological planet for Death is Pluto, symbolizing power, transformation, and destruction. Pluto denotes a seeker with a very powerful and often dark side. Pluto represents endings and new beginnings. Pluto rules with sternness, determination, and focus. Pluto often shows its shadow, symbolizing the darkness and the underworld, the unknown. Pluto tends to present itself to the natives in their hardest life trials, times when they are dealing with loss, sorrow, trauma, illness, and the need to face reality.
Water is the astrological element for Death and astrological sign is Scorpio. This sign suggests secrets, the underworld, and even vengeful monsters. Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, which is the ruler of death. Pluto is also associated with the shadow. The black rider represents you, the soul, and your physical body, the body of the physical world, and the rider’s position on the black horse.
Death card shows a skeleton, also known as the Messenger of Death, dressed in black armor, symbolizing the material world and the need to prepare for one’s end by letting go of the attachments of the past. It is riding a horse symbolizing rebirth and journeying into the afterlife. Death arrives unexpectedly and suddenly and without much warning, and this card is a reminder for us to focus on what is most important to us by taking a closer look at what is truly meaningful in our life.
On the Death card, the Messenger of Death is carrying a black flag with a white rose with five petals. This is a symbol for immortality of the soul. The skeleton is the symbol for the end. The angel of death carries the soul of the soul and delivers it to God on the path of the four kings. In ancient times, this was the general symbol of mourning and the need to prepare for the inevitable. The overall appearance in the card suggests that this is a positive occurrence. There are significant events that will occur and will have lasting effects on the people who survive this transition. This white rose is a symbol of the human spirit and its ability to continue despite the obstacles in life.
Death is riding a white horse, indicating that death is inevitable and inevitable change is coming. The horse is a symbol of power and ferocity, but through its white, it is a representation of peace, purity and light.
General Meaning of Death
Death card describes a time in your life when something is being left behind. It can mean that you are moving into a new chapter and making big changes. The same, however, applies to the situation in which you are leaving behind what has been a part of your life for a long time. Your relationships, work, friends or family might be left behind to make way for new things. This transition can be scary and you may not know what’s next, but you’re ready for it.
Death card is an archetype of life’s inevitable end. There is a definite beginning and end for each of our lives. If you are in tune with yourself and have developed self-understanding, you can cope with this transition. The Death card represents transformation. Every time we transition a position or a circumstance we have to leave something behind. It is inevitable that every thing we experience and be apart from must give way to something else, and the end of one thing brings the beginning of something else. Just like with Death, you are changing, but the end of one thing brings the beginning of something new.
In a general Tarot reading Death card describes a change of life’s circumstances, the necessity to get rid of the past, and to let go of the old. It’s a card of endings and change. Death is not about the physical death of a person, but it’s more about leaving and closing the door. Death is something that must be undergone in order to allow for new beginnings. This death is not about saying goodbye to loved ones but about accepting change, clearing out the old, and letting go of the past. The Death card tells you that it is time for change. It might not be pleasant, but for the most part, this is welcomed.
Death denotes change, the necessity to move on, and the end of something. One might get rid of the old and opt for a whole new life, a new beginning, or better understand the value of the relationship. The card foretells a transition period that you need to go through.
When pulled in a positive, strength, or advantage Tarot spread position, Death card calls you to honor your authentic spirit and journey by pushing past the barriers and walls you’ve set up in your path. You may have blocked out certain parts of life because you did not want to face the pain or suffering associated with them. You may have blocked away certain parts of yourself, not realizing the good energy and new potential they represent. The Death card urges you to release these barriers and allow yourself to experience the blessings that lie within.
In a reading, the Death tarot card is a strong indication that you need to let go of things that are no longer serving you. It is time to cut your losses and start fresh. You have an important role to play in the world and need to live your truth, even if it is not popular with others. Acknowledge your life experience and transform into who you really are. If you’re currently dealing with loss or changes in life, the Death card appears as an encouraging sign to let go and welcome the changes that are ahead.
Death card in a negative, weakness, or obstacle Tarot spread position calls you to face a challenge head on with courage, resilience, and strength. Instead of avoiding the pain of change, you are accepting it and moving on to a brighter and more authentic future.
When Death shows up in your reading, it is time to move on. Sometimes it is the end of a chapter in your life, whether it is a relationship, job, or some other type of situation. The way forward is murky, full of confusion, and challenging. Some of the main themes surrounding this card are endings, letting go, transformation, and sacrifice. Death is a part of life and is inevitable. We all die, and if we don’t learn this lesson, it will be forced upon us by circumstances beyond our control. However, it is not about physical death. The Death card serves as a reminder that change is unavoidable. Even the best laid plans that we make for the long-term are prone to change by the hands of the Universe.
Death in the Context of Love and Relationships
In a love reading Death card indicates a change in the relationship. Death means long distance, if you are in a relationship and are considering taking your relationship to the next level. Death denotes that the relationship has become stale and boring after the initial excitement and romance.
Death card as feelings denote the Seeker feels uncomfortable in their relationship and is questioning if the relationship will make them happy.
Death often shows up in a reading when there are some issues with sexual fulfillment. The Seeker has to let go of the past to have a fulfilling relationship.
Death through feelings in a love Tarot reading describes the breakup of a partnership, separation, or divorce. A relationship can feel fragile in its earliest days as the two people adjust to being alone. In some cases, one partner may feel neglected or abandoned, and they may even consider divorce. In others, there is a period of adjustment after the sudden realization that the relationship is over. The Death card can also indicate that a breakup has been brought on by external circumstances, such as a job loss, a family emergency, or a significant change in your circumstances.
The Death (upright) Love Tarot card represents the emotional upheaval that occurs after a relationship ends. You may find that you have to work through many feelings and that old hurts resurface. Although this process can be very upsetting, it can also be an opportunity for you to learn about yourself and to grow. A breakup might be a good time for you and your partner to examine every area of your relationship and to make sure that it is still a good fit.
For those who have love questions Death Tarot card exposes itself, as things in the relationship can be a bit turbulent right now. If you’re single, you’ll need to work on letting go of grudges, issues, and baggage before taking on a new love in your life. We don’t want to take on another person in our lives while still holding onto the past. The relationship could be up and down, but don’t let your feelings run away from you. If you’re ready to let go and make room for love, then you will attract the right person in your life. This person might be someone who is different from what you expected.
Death in the Context of Career
In a Tarot career reading, Death can predict your worst-case scenario. You can lose your job as you have not taken care of your business properly. This will not be a pleasant or a simple transition. It may be necessary, then, for you to make some tough moves in order to get yourself out of this rut. You must learn how to let go if you want to advance. The Death card in the upright position can also suggest that you are at a crossroads when it comes to your profession. Are you considering changing paths? Are you concerned that you are not ready? Or are you content with the current path and ready to let go? The Death tarot card is not something you want to rush into. You will need to weigh the pros and cons. This evaluation will give you a sense of which path is the best for you, just make sure that the company you are working for is not being unsupportive of your transition.
However, it’s all not doom and gloom. In a career Tarot reading Death card signals new beginnings in a professional aspect. After completing work related projects, you may take a big leap towards retirement or self-employment. In a business, this card shows that the time is coming for you to take stock of your business priorities and strategies. The time is also good for you to make necessary changes in your professional life, to expand with new opportunities, and to explore new territories. You might be searching for a new role and considering a change of profession.
The Death Card signals that you are about to leave a relationship or a job that has become tedious and unfulfilling for you and look forward to a new beginning. This is a time for introspection, a time to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, and a time to make improvements. Death card from the Major Arcana deck signals a positive change that will advance your career and business- if you put in the work. In a general career reading, this card suggests that you are at the point where you are making adjustments in your professional life.
Death in the Context of Finances
If you’ve pulled Death after asking your deck about finances, you may no longer be struggling. This is a time of relief and calm in your life. It may be that you are no longer paying rent or mortgages, that you finally paid off your debt, or that you are now finally able to give money to your loved ones or charity. Sometimes, this card can also suggest the possibility of a loss of money that people may find alarming. Be aware that there may be legal issues with your investments and insurance. This card may be a sign of the arrival of a peaceful financial situation. This could be an extended period of economic stability after which your old financial habits can no longer hold you back.
Death (upright) might be used as a metaphor for money in a monetary Tarot reading. It may be a sign that a difficult phase in your financial situation is drawing to a close. This suggests that you’re finally getting over a period of economic struggle. You’ll discover that you’re in a much better place than you were at the beginning.
On the other hand, in a finance Tarot reading Death card signals the need to go on a budget and practice restraint. You may have been living beyond your means in the past, and now it is time to change your financial habits. If you are struggling to pay your bills, you may be able to reduce your expenses and make ends meet. Before long, you will discover that your good fortune is due to these efforts and that you have the control necessary to keep things steady.
Similarly, Death (upright) signifies the need to go through one’s finances and make choices about expenses. You may have been living beyond your means in the past, so now it is time to change your financial habits. Try to stick to one’s expenditures or they could snowball or double. If you are having trouble keeping up, you may be able to reduce your expenditures and make ends meet. Eventually, you’ll discover that your good fortune is due to these efforts and that you have the control necessary to keep things steady.
Death in the Context of Health
In a health Tarot reading Death calls you to let go of limiting beliefs and patterns that don’t serve you. When we fall in love with our unhealthy habits, we forget that they are just habits – nothing more! In the same way, letting go of unhealthy thoughts will serve you well as you pursue new goals and create new habits in your life. Consider this as your ‘reset’ button. If you’re in the middle of an illness, Death advises you to seek a knowledgeable counselor who can help you navigate this difficult period in your life. Be confident that you have what it takes to get through it.
If your question is about what should be your focus when overcoming an illness, Death card in a reading exposes the seriousness of your condition. You must treat your health with the same dedication and commitment you give to your other goals. If you have been waiting for results, you must not lose heart and believe in yourself. Try not to be disheartened and focus on getting rid of the illness instead.
Death Card Through Spirituality and Self-Development
In a spirituality and self-development reading Death card is all about transformation, releasing something that no longer serves you in your life. If you are facing problems with your job life, then this card indicates that you will be released from this situation soon. You will feel happy and relieved after this period. A death card in a reading is always a surprise for the people. But when this comes in an upright position, the people are more likely to accept it as they know it cannot be avoided. The card also tells us that we have to accept our current reality and that it is time for us to face the challenges in our life by learning from them. You will face many challenges in your life, and you will have to face them with courage. You will overcome them and come out as a successful person with a great personality. This card also indicates that you will be released from your old life and trapped habits and will start a new life and new habits.
When you’re asking Tarot about finding your purpose, and you’ve pulled Death, you might be going through a period of soul-searching and reflection. You’re re-examining what fulfills and depletes you, and what parts of your life can be let go. It’s possible that you’re realizing that you no longer need to be chained to a particular circumstance, and are breaking free to pursue a new path. Others who are going through this inner transition may find that the path ahead is unclear and confusing. At times, this can be scary. But look at your situation logically and rationally. Do you have other options? What are you avoiding that you cannot let go of?
Now is the time to let go of those things that no longer serve you, and make changes that will propel you towards your greater goals.
The Death card encourages you to stop holding on to the beliefs or the ways of doing things that no longer serve you. You need to let go of your past so you can move on to a brighter future. Sometimes this can be painful and hard.
Is Death Yes or No Card?
In a yes or no reading, Death card indicates ‘yes’ as a definite answer to your question. Death is all about overcoming obstacles, learning from your mistakes, and embracing a new way of living. When the Death tarot card is turned up during your reading, this signifies that you will soon learn something that will completely change your life. You have come close to the end of something which is going out of your control. However, the card is a reminder that you must move forward with your life, even when you are faced with difficult circumstances. Sometimes the only solution is to start afresh. In a yes or no reading, Tarot reading Death card signals a strong ‘yes’ response to your query. This indicates that whatever it is you are dealing with is about to come to a close and move on (or forward) to something much better.
Death as a Person
If you’ve pulled Death as a person, a card describes a person who is releasing the energies within himself that were once held back. If that’s about you – you are preparing to move forward in the life force, but you can also retreat and go for a nap or a rejuvenation. You are prepared to move forward with this new beginning of life force energy.
The Death tarot card is the ultimate in letting go. To rid oneself of one’s self-deceptions and personal beliefs in order to make room for something new is a rite of passage. To do so means to take one’s ego to the path of its own destruction.
Those who have questions about a physical characteristics of a person, Death Tarot card indicates “the birth of a new person”. This card will bring a new beginning in your life and it will allow you to live a life with purity and honesty. The thing is that if you are not ready to let a certain person go in your life, then the change will come to you. The person who will die is your past, so you need to be ready to let go of it. This person will also provide you with lessons, so learn from them and don’t repeat the mistakes you have recently made.
If the Death tarot card comes in your reading upright, then this indicates that the period of transition will be in your life too. You need to take time to mourn the passing of a significant person in your life as this will help you to remember them and think about the lessons they have taught you in your life.
If your question is about a Death card as a emotional description of person, a reading exposes the person whose time is almost up. The card is associated with a transition that people face and death is the final end of a chapter. The Death card might also be referring to you. This card might be challenging for you; your loved ones may not be there for you, and the way you are living your life is not the right one. The end of one phase or an era is on the horizon. You must face the truth. If you are holding on, it is time to let go and accept a new beginning. Don’t dwell on the past. If you feel anxious or afraid, embrace the opportunity to grow and push past your obstacles This card might suggest a loss of support and help from loved ones. This is a time where you will have to stand on your own two feet.
Death as a Feeling
If you’ve pulled Death as a feeling, a card indicates a major transition is coming to an end. It may be the end of an era, a relationship, a career, a physical body, or a way of thinking or doing things. This change can raise a number of issues for you. You may have to cut your losses, shed the past, or move on. It could also be a time of spiritual reckoning, when you are called to see how you came to be in your current state and make changes accordingly.
Death shows up in the same way as other Major Arcana cards, as a sign of transformation, rebirth, and the necessity of change. This card encourages you to embrace it as a positive thing, rather than something to fear.
Those who seek answers about card as a feeling, Death Tarot card indicates the need to embrace the inner self and cut away all the negative or unhealthy things that no longer serve you. You are called to embrace change, give up fear, and let go of the old so that you can accept and welcome the new. This might involve letting go of a toxic relationship, living in a home you no longer need or own, or letting go of a job that no longer serves you. The Death card is calling on you to cut your losses and let go of the past so that you can embrace the future.
The Death tarot card represents letting go of the old so that you can embrace the new. You might have to let go of an old relationship, an outdated belief or an unhealthy way of living that no longer serves you. The only constant in life is change and the only constant is death itself. It is time to accept both with grace. If you are facing a difficult time that is causing you stress or grief, Death tarot card serves as a gentle reminder to know that you do not have to go through things alone.
What Is Death Card as a Positive Card, Strength, and Advantage?
When you’ve pulled Death card in a positive position that describes advantage or strength in a Tarot reading, you are in a period of transformation. It may be frightening or painful, but the result will be worth it. It is time to go through a transition in your life. When upright, the Death card symbolizes change and the inevitable passage of time, in a sense, you can’t take it with you. When Death card appears in a positive position that is about advantages or strength in a Tarot reading, the message the card sends is that you need to let go of the things that were holding you back. This is difficult because of the baggage we carry with us from our past experiences and the things that make us feel vulnerable and insecure. It is like letting a bad memory out of a caged lion’s cage. You can be haunted by something, and you know you must let it free in order for your life to flourish. Release is the main theme of the Death card – the release of the old life, the release from negative emotions and attachments, and the start of a new chapter.
In a positive position, the Death card suggests that you are on the brink of a significant change in your life. You are on the verge of letting go of an experience that has left a deep emotional wound within you, and this can manifest in many ways. You may lose a job, have to break up with someone you loved, or feel a sense of sadness or loss in an important relationship.
Death as an Obstacle
When pulled in a negative, weakness, or obstacle Tarot spread position, Death card calls you to take a break and assess what is important in your life. Are you overextending yourself or trying to do everything for everyone? In times like these, your inner guidance system should be turned on- especially when it comes to your relationships with others. If you’re struggling with dealing with others in your life, stop blaming yourself, and instead, take a good look at what you can be doing to help things.
If Death comes up in the upright position in your tarot card reading, it means that you should let go of your past and embrace a new and better future. Death symbolizes the conclusion of a certain thing or event in your life. Although it’s necessary, it is also considered to be sad and painful. You must prepare yourself for this change and accept it. The final time comes, and so does the new beginning. The Death (Upright) card advises you to be open and be ready to start new things in your life. You must change your negative habits and patterns.
When it comes to challenges and obstacles, Death can represent anything ranging from a death in the family to the loss of a job. Death can take the form of sickness, accident, violence, and more. Death forces us to let go (in one sense) of the past so that we can create new paths for ourselves. The message of the Death tarot card in general is to let go and let die.
Death is also significant in regards to spirituality because it often involves the process of transformation. This is not to say that you should completely let go of your spiritual beliefs and practices. They serve a purpose. The process of death is a natural transition and therefore a spiritual one. It is time to let go of all that is no longer serving you and welcome the new path that lies ahead. The Death card is often connected to other Major Arcana cards because it represents a spiritual transition. The Lovers, the High Priestess, the Chariot, and the Hermit are all linked to the Death card. The Death card is generally linked to things that come to an end. This includes work, relationships, and material things.
Death card in a negative, weakness, or obstacle Tarot spread position tells you that the obstacles you face or are about to face are not ones that others can see. You can still accomplish your desired goals, but you must put in the effort. As the saying goes, “No one can do it alone.” You must reach out for help, even if it’s from a friend, loved one, or stranger. This card is telling you that it is time to put on your big girl/boy pants and accomplish what needs to be done. If you’re looking for something in the past, you shall find it in the past. If you’re wanting to know what future to expect, take a close look at the Death card! This card is neither good news nor bad. This card is merely a sign that change is about to occur and that you must adapt to the changes. Your situation may be difficult, but it won’t be forever. Although there may be a lot of pain around you, the card suggests that you should trust, embrace, and accept what needs to be done.
Death Card as a Future Outcome
When Death appears in a future or outcome Tarot spread position, did the meaning make you uneasy? Do you worry you may not be ready when it comes? The Death card foretells a powerful transformation. This could mean a physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual change. If you feel stuck or unsure about the changes that are coming, it’s time to get ready! Take some time to sit quietly and reflect on your own life. Ask yourself what is keeping you from achieving your full potential? The Death card suggests this inner work is essential if you are to successfully transform and grow through this change. It also signals the end of a chapter. When you feel the time is right, close the book on the past and open a new one. Death doesn’t just signify a change, it also closes and ends a chapter. To move forward, we must let go of what no longer serves us. The big question is, do you have a secret you desperately want to spill — perhaps the one that will finally release you from the past?
When Death appear in a future outcome position in a Tarot reading, the time has come to let go of a significant part of yourself. Are you ready to let go of a relationship, an addiction, or an item that no longer serves you? Doing so will free you of the old and usher you on with a new life.
Death may be a symbol of change, transition, and transformation. In the upright position, it is often the release of something that has been strangling your life. You are ready to release any chains of fear, worries, and negative beliefs. You are ready to transform your life away from old habits and patterns. You may even be making some big changes and releasing yourself from the people and things that no longer serve you.
When Death appears in a Tarot reading, it may also be indicative of an End. In other words, it may be the end of something that has been a part of your life for a long time. Perhaps a relationship is ending, a job is ending, or a way of life is ending in favor of something more spiritually fulfilling.
When in a Tarot reading Death card appears in a future outcome position, it signifies that a significant transition, often a personal one is about to occur. You have been exploring many options for yourself – and you have been engaging with what you feel you need for life. If you did some soul searching earlier, this is what that ‘thing’ looks like for you now. A great opportunity to explore the path you are meant to be on is right around the corner.
Death in the upright position is often associated with endings. When Death appears in a reading, it signifies that change is unavoidable. The things that you once cherished will no longer be at play, and you will need to explore different options to find what makes you happy. The things you have known have come to an end, and you will need to discover what makes you happy again. This Major Arcana card often points to the idea of ‘letting go’. A significant transition in life is about to happen, whether you are ready for it or not, so you might as well embrace it.
Death Card as a Prediction of When an Event Will Occur
If you’re asking Tarot when will a specific happening occur, Death exposes the secret or hidden part of life and therefore has an exact answer: Yes, but it won’t occur as quickly as you think. Unfortunately, this can be frustrating. But remember that the Universe works in mysterious ways. Even if the occurrence isn’t what you would have liked, it could be better than you expected and might bring you new opportunities. As the final and ultimate card of cycles, Death represents the passage of time and the end of a cycle. It also serves as a gentle reminder that change is inevitable. You cannot avoid it, nor should you want to. If you’ve had a long string of problems or challenges, Death signifies the end to these struggles and that you’re about to come out on the other side. Your obstacles and hardships will be gone and your spirit will soar.
When in a Tarot reading Death card describes a time frame, the card reveals moments of change, endings, transformation, and letting go of the past. As the card represents endings and change, it is an indicator that endings and transformations are part of life. Death is the card of change, which in a general sense states that everything that you consider important in your life is going to change. Even that this will not be in a good way, as it may not be a thing you wanted.