Perception of Death and Its Meaning in Tarot

“Death” Card in Tarot Does Not Always Equal “Death”

Death is probably the most misinterpreted card in tarot. Perhaps it is because of the imagery or the use of the word “death” that the card often evokes fear in the mind of the reader. The problem also lies in the way we interpret death, as most of us go through life refusing to think about the one thing that is inevitable. We prefer not to talk about death – either ours or that of our loved ones – because to us it is the end of existence as we know it. Death lies in the realm of the unknown, and it is the unknown that we fear the most.

But tarot sees death from a spiritual or energetic perspective; that is, death is the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one. The end may be painful and hard (as death can sometimes be) because it means letting go of the attachments of a life already lived, and it signifies leaving the comfort of the known to embrace the uncertainty and adventure of the unknown. But the fact is that spiritually and energetically, death is just another step toward absolution.

In tarot readings whenever you come across the death card in any spread, look for a deeper spiritual, energetic meaning; only then will you be able to interpret the card accurately. The meaning may be provided through the previous cards as well as those that follow.

It could mean the querent needs to embrace change and move on with life if it comes as an advice card. It is important to remember that when a question is put forth with use of tarot that the spread shows based on the situation as it currently is and as time moves forward and the querent begins to embrace her free will and choice that the outcome begins to adjust as well.

In the outcome position, it could mean an inevitable event that may be painful but transforms the querent’s life so completely that it could be considered to be like a rebirth.

If the querent’s question concerns his/her career and you get death in the outcome, it could mean a major change in his/her profession – perhaps even a change of streams. The querent needs to begin to think about their soul’s purpose and whether the current position he/she holds is truly supportive of this journey; alternately, does he/she need to release it to embrace a new career path, one that is much more aligned with his/her purpose?

In a relationship spread, death may not always mean a breakdown of the relationship but rather a radical change in its dynamics. It could also mean letting go of a negative or a painful relationship and embracing a future that holds new possibilities.

Noting down the reactions of the querent, if the card comes in the “signifier” position, this will also help you interpret the real meaning of death accurately. If the card evokes feelings of dread, fear or denial in the querent, it could mean that he/she is unwilling to let go of the past and is refusing to go with the flow of life. This type of reaction is also our ego stepping in to try to direct the outcome instead of allowing our higher selves to be in the driver’s seat and find the peace within the new found knowledge.

The death card essentially signifies change: a change that is inevitable and a change that is perhaps the only constant in our lives. You can welcome it and accept whatever the change brings or resist it and make the transformation process even more painful. The thing to remember with the death card, however, is that no matter how difficult the transition period between the end and a new beginning may be, the outcome always holds the promise of a better tomorrow.

Until next time, embrace your inner wisdom.

Namaste,
Karen