Understanding someone’s lingering emotions for an ex through tarot can be both illuminating and deeply personal. Relationships leave imprints on the heart, and even after they end, emotional ties may linger in ways that are complex, confusing, or even painful. The tarot serves as a mirror, reflecting the hidden aspects of these emotions and providing insight into how they shape one’s perspective on love and loss.
When The Devil appears reversed in a reading about an ex-partner, it suggests a profound shift in emotional dynamics. This card is heavily tied to themes of attachment, obsession, and unhealthy cycles. In its reversed position, it often indicates the breaking of chains—whether that means releasing toxic patterns or struggling with emotional liberation. But does this signify genuine healing, or is there still an underlying emotional entanglement? To truly understand, you must look beyond the surface and into the deeper meaning of what this card reveals about the heart’s true condition.
The Devil Reversed as Feelings for an Ex: What Does It Indicate?
This card can indicate a release from past emotional burdens, signaling that either the querent or their ex is working through their feelings in an attempt to move on. There may be relief, as if a weight is lifting, but there can also be sadness or regret in realizing what was lost. Sometimes, The Devil reversed hints at a newfound awareness of how unhealthy the past relationship may have been, leading to a desire for emotional freedom. In some cases, however, it can reflect lingering hope—hope that despite the toxicity, reconciliation is possible now that certain patterns have been acknowledged and addressed.
The nature of the relationship plays a key role in interpreting this card. If the relationship was one of codependency, manipulation, or addiction—whether emotional or physical—The Devil reversed suggests a wake-up call. The querent or their ex may be recognizing how unhealthy attachments influenced the dynamic, and this realization is bringing clarity. But is this clarity leading to true healing, or is it merely stirring unresolved emotions?
Emotional Messages Hidden in The Devil Reversed
Feelings tied to The Devil reversed often oscillate between nostalgia and a growing awareness of what needs to be left behind. The querent or their ex may be reminiscing, wondering if things could have been different, but at the same time recognizing that the connection was not built on a foundation of mutual growth. This card’s energy often suggests emotional liberation in progress, but not without difficulty. The heart may still be tempted to revisit the past, even when the mind understands the necessity of moving forward.
At its core, The Devil reversed hints at a journey toward emotional independence. Whether it manifests as sadness, regret, or a need for closure, this card reminds the querent that breaking free from past emotional bonds is not instantaneous. It is a process that requires self-awareness, honesty, and sometimes painful acceptance.
The Devil Reversed and the Potential for Renewal or Letting Go
If there is still a pull toward the past, it may stem from a need for closure rather than a genuine desire to rekindle the relationship. The card warns against falling back into the same patterns that led to pain in the first place. However, if both individuals have changed and have actively worked through past issues, reconciliation is not entirely out of the question—though it must be approached with caution and mindfulness.
More often than not, The Devil reversed indicates that the querent is on the path to breaking free, even if they are struggling with the final steps. It encourages them to question whether holding on serves their highest good or if it is merely prolonging emotional suffering. This card ultimately invites a conscious decision: to allow space for healing and renewal or to remain in the cycle of longing and attachment.
How The Devil Reversed Encourages Self-Reflection on Love and Loss
By reflecting on these questions, the querent can gain clarity on why they still hold certain emotions for their ex. The Devil reversed is a card of personal liberation, but this freedom is only possible when one acknowledges their own emotional landscape. Sometimes, the hardest part is admitting that part of the pain comes from within—whether it be fear, insecurity, or the inability to fully let go.
This card’s message is ultimately one of empowerment. While emotions from the past may linger, they do not have to define the future. The querent is encouraged to take ownership of their emotional well-being and to use this awareness to build healthier, more fulfilling relationships moving forward.
What Can You Do to Understand and Work Through These Emotions?
The Devil reversed presents an opportunity for healing, but it requires active engagement. The first step is self-awareness—recognizing what emotional patterns are still in play and whether they are serving or hindering growth. Journaling, meditation, or even speaking with a trusted confidant can help in processing lingering feelings.
If closure is needed, consider reaching out to the ex in a way that fosters clarity rather than reopens wounds. However, if communication is not an option, a personal ritual—such as writing a letter and then burning it—can help symbolically release the emotions tied to the past.
Self-care is crucial when navigating the energy of The Devil reversed. Engaging in practices that reinforce emotional independence—such as focusing on personal goals, establishing healthy boundaries, and embracing self-love—can gradually shift perspective. With time and intention, the heavy emotions tied to the past will begin to dissipate, making room for renewal and emotional freedom.
Ultimately, The Devil reversed is an invitation to reclaim your power. Whether this means finding closure, embracing self-growth, or even opening the door to new possibilities, the key lies in breaking free from the emotional chains that no longer serve you. Through understanding, reflection, and conscious effort, healing is not only possible—it is inevitable.