Death
Symbolic Attributes
- Element:Scorpio
- Arcana:Major Arcana
- Suit:Trump
- Archetype:Death
- Numerology:13 = 1 + 3 = 4 (stability, persistence)
- Hebrew Alphabet:Nun/Fish/50
Keywords
Description
The veil or mask of life is perpetuated in change, transformation and passage from lower to higher, and this is more fitly represented in the rectified Tarot by one of the apocalyptic visions than by the crude notion of the reaping skeleton. Behind it lies the whole world of ascent in the spirit. The mysterious horseman moves slowly, bearing a black banner emblazoned with the Mystic Rose, which signifies life. Between two pillars on the verge of the horizon there shines the sun of immortality. The horseman carries no visible weapon, but king and child and maiden fall before him, while a prelate with clasped hands awaits his end. There should be no need to point out that the suggestion of death which I have made in connection with the previous card is, of course, to be understood mystically, but this is not the case in the present instance. The natural transit of man to the next stage of his being either is or may be one form of his progress, but the exotic and almost unknown entrance, while still in this life, into the state of mystical death is a change in the form of consciousness and the passage into a state to which ordinary death is neither the path nor gate. The existing occult explanations of the 13th card are, on the whole, better than usual, rebirth, creation, destination, renewal, and the rest.
Light Meaning
- Bringing an unpleasant phase of life to an end
- Recognizing and celebrating the conclusion of something
- Putting bad habits to rest
- Becoming a new person
- Leaving one person, place, or thing for another
- Letting go
Shadow Meaning
- Obsessing on death and dying
- Refusing to give up old habits or unhealthy relationships
- Insisting that everything and everyone should stay the same forever
- Failing to take good care of yourself
Questions to Ask Yourself
- •What needs to end?
- •How might an ending actually be a blessing in this situation?
- •What's next?
Personal Meaning
A time of transition is approaching. Release attachments and move forward in faith that what you are experiencing is a part of your chosen plan, and serves your highest good. This is an opportunity to become greater than you were before.
You experienced a significant time of transition. Let go of the past, and know that you have become greater than you were before.
A time of transition is upon you. Know that this end is occurring because of divine timing. There is nothing you could have done to avoid it; one way or another it had to happen. Release attachments and move forward in faith that what you are experiencing is a part of your chosen plan, and serves your highest good. This is an opportunity to become greater than you were before.
Personal Reversed Meaning
Do not let go. It may look like something will die, but this may not be the case. There is something worth saving here, so fight to hold on with everything you have.
You held on to something, even when it looked like its time was through.
Do not let go. Something in your situation may appear to have died, or looks as if it is in the throes of dying, but all hope is not yet gone. There is something worth saving here, so fight to hold on with everything you have.
Fortune Telling
- •A relationship or illness ends suddenly
- •Limit travel and risk-taking
- •General gloom and doom
Mythical / Spiritual Context
Christ in the tomb. Hades. Hypnos. Thanatos. Stories of journeys into the underworld.
How to Interpret This Card in a Reading
A guide to deepening your understanding of Tarot symbolism.
Context is Key
No Tarot card exists in a vacuum. While the meanings above provide a foundation, the true significance of this card depends on where it lands in your spread. Is it in the past position, indicating a phase you are moving away from? Or is it in the outcome position, suggesting a potential future? Always consider the neighboring cards — they often tell a story that modifies or amplifies the message.
Trust Your Intuition
Traditional meanings are the starting point, but your intuition is the compass. When you look at the card imagery, what draws your eye first? A specific color, a symbol, or a facial expression might trigger a personal memory or feeling. That immediate reaction is often the most relevant message for your current situation, even if it differs from the standard definition.
Understanding Reversals
If this card appears reversed (upside down), don't fear it. Reversals often suggest an internalizing of the card's energy, a delay, or a need to revisit the lesson before moving forward. It can also indicate that the "shadow" aspects described above are currently more active, inviting you to bring them into the light for healing.
Connecting with the Element
Remember the suit this card belongs to. Wands speak to passion and action (Fire). Cups dive into emotions and relationships (Water). Swords navigate the mind and conflicts (Air). Pentacles ground us in the material world and resources (Earth). The Major Arcana represents larger life themes and soul lessons. Filtering the card's meaning through its elemental lens will give you a grounded, practical way to apply its wisdom to your life.