Death Tarot Card Meaning
This card symbolizes death, hence the imagery primarily focuses on the figure of the Grim Reaper. The Grim Reaper is typically depicted as a skeleton, traditionally wielding a scythe. The skeleton is a symbol of lifelessness, and when cloaked in a hooded robe, concealing its form, and holding a scythe meant for reaping heads, it is an image deeply ingrained in the Western psyche, embodying the figure of death.
Regarding the Grim Reaper's image: In Europe, since the Middle Ages, there has been a ritual known as the 'Dance of Death' or Danse macabre, associated with death. This dance is strongly connected to everyday life, and 'dancing with death' was a common occurrence during many festivals. After the ravages of plague and war in the Middle Ages, they engaged in such ceremonies to coexist peacefully with death, hoping not to receive such harsh news. However, people also understood that death is a constant in life and came to terms with the inevitability of death and what the Grim Reaper brings.
The depiction of the Grim Reaper in the Waite Tarot is modeled after scenes from the 'Revelation' to convey the meaning of death, integrating the skeleton into the imagery, adding more significance than the original expression of 'reaping skeletons.' Here, the skeleton rides a massive white horse and is clad in black armor, with only the head and face exposed. Under the iron helmet, the skull is clearly visible, its hollow gaze seemingly staring at you. Clad in black armor from head to toe, including iron boots, the fully armored knight is undoubtedly invincible. This is akin to the 'Revelation' depiction of the Pale Horseman, bringing an invisible weapon akin to a plague.
The mysterious knight's massive steed symbolizes immense and powerful energy, with the white horse representing pure light energy. The armor is strong and rigid, and the black armor further displays a heavy and solemn atmosphere. The contrast between the black armor and the white horse suggests the serious side of life and is also the representative color of death. The black reins and bridle are embroidered with skull patterns, another set of black and white contrasts. The only prominent color is a red feather in the 'Grim Reaper's' helmet, indicating that it still possesses energy; the Grim Reaper actually has a powerful spiritual force.
The 'Grim Reaper' rides the white horse, trampling with iron hooves, and raises a black flag with white roses, sweeping towards this place. The black flag condenses a solemn and heavy atmosphere, with contrasting white roses embroidered on it, symbolizing the purity of death and the cleansing of the soul. It is still a black and white contrast, the color of death, the flag of death. A black flag bearing the symbol of life, the 'Mystic Rose,' connects on many levels.
The rose pattern on the flag has two layers; the outer layer consists of two sets of five petals, and the inner layer is another esoteric symbol. The outer layer, composed of five petals, is in the form of the Tudor Rose, symbolizing noble spiritual power and praising the splendor of death. The five main petals form an inverted pentagram, representing the downward flow of material life energy. Between the petals are five pointed shapes resembling the iron boots worn by the Grim Reaper, and the five 'iron boots' form an upright pentagram, representing the power of spiritual life.
Inside the rose's central part, there are twenty-two petals, each representing one of the twenty-two Hebrew letters, corresponding to the twenty-two paths of the Kabbalistic 'Tree of Life,' the twenty-two chapters of Revelation, and naturally connecting to the twenty-two Major Arcana of the Tarot. This pattern is the so-called 'Mystic Rose' pattern, indicating the relative relationships and positions of the Hebrew letters, as well as the connotations and symbols of each letter and its correspondence to other systems—elements, astrology, Tarot, etc. It is a microcosm of the cosmic archetype and a presentation of mystical principles.
The traditional skull Grim Reaper with a scythe to remove the heads from the ground, while the mysterious knight here does not carry any visible weapons, only raising a flag, yet it still brings immense lethality. Because the plot of 'Revelation' is hidden within, implying his power and the implications and functions behind it. The mysterious power of death leaves the ground ravaged, and people are completely defeated in the face of death, and almost everyone on this ground is hard to escape the disaster.
The secular ruler, the Emperor, is now lying flat under the horse of death, facing down to the left and closing his eyes, covered with a piece of blue peaceful cloth. His crown has fallen to the ground, and the spiral-shaped scepter is also left aside. The Emperor is the first to face the end of death, and his iron boots are not as strong as those of the death knight. The woman kneels in front of death, helplessly lowering her hands, giving up the fight, but she turns her head to one side, unwilling to see this scene, as if unwilling to face the fact of the coming of death. The child stands innocently and ignorantly, seemingly the least disturbed, even curiously watching the arrival of death!
The woman is like the 'Strength' card, and the child is like the child in the 'Sun' card. The two most energetic lives are also facing the danger of 'Death,' the difficulty of 'Death.' It seems that the Pope can resist, is negotiating with death, facing and dealing with death, always religious people. Although he can face death more calmly, he is still waiting for the moment when life ends, his hands are folded and held in front of his chest, praying before death, or calling for God's salvation.
What exactly follows behind the 'Death' and what it will bring is a very important issue. The influence of death seems not only to be aimed at individuals, but it may also bring the effect of changing the whole world behind it.
In the background, the lower land is a canyon adjacent to the cliffs in the distance, which is a piece of yellow land, a pool of water, and a few green trees. Further behind the canyon, there is a river, and a sailboat is sailing towards the right side of the picture, indicating that it can be far away from all this, and some people say that this river is the river of death, flowing to the realm of death. The color of the cliffs is blue and gray, symbolizing a bleak prospect, and there is still a sense of life on the green grass on the riverbank.
On the far right, the distant double towers can be seen, with another river or road leading to the double towers passing through. Between the two pillars on the edge of the horizon, there is a distant mountain, and the eternal sun is shining on the edge of the mountain. This beam of sunlight, is it about to fall or rise? The rise represents that the light will rise again after death. The fall indicates that it will be dark. This turning point is left to be decided by the following cards.
The primitive image of the sun rising and falling between the double towers comes from a mysterious Egyptian symbol - Djew and Akhet.
Djew: The meaning of this symbol is two adjacent twin peaks. The mountain on the west is called Manu, and the one on the east is called Bakhu, which is the mountain that supports the sky, and the middle is a low valley symbolizing the Nile Valley. This place is to ensure the rise and fall of the sun, and it is also a symbol of tombstones or the afterlife, because the cemetery is usually located on the west bank of the Nile Valley.
Akhet: It is the Djew symbol plus the sun disc, symbolizing the rise and fall of the sun on the horizon. After the New Kingdom, it is related to Horus on the horizon, connecting to the Sphinx.
And in the Tarot cards, many pictures will appear similar to this group of patterns, used to symbolize rich meanings.
The Rider on the White Horse
The central figure of the Death card is a skeletal rider on a white horse, representing the inevitability of death. The rider is not a symbol of an ending but rather a force of transformation and change. The white horse is symbolic of purity, suggesting that this transformation is both necessary and purifying.
The Black Standard with the Mystic Rose
The flag carried by the skeletal rider features a white, five-petal rose on a black background. The rose, in its whiteness, signifies life, purification, and immortality. The juxtaposition with the black background represents the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
The Sun on the Horizon
At the bottom of the card, between two pillars, the sun appears to be setting or rising. This speaks to the cyclical nature of life and death. Just as the sun sets, it also rises again, symbolizing hope, rebirth, and the continuity of life.
The Fallen Figures
Below the rider, various figures are shown in the path of the advancing horse. These figures represent all walks of life, reminding us that death and transformation come for all, regardless of status or position. Their presence emphasizes the universality of the transformation process.
The River
A flowing river can be seen in the background, symbolizing the River of Life. Rivers often denote passage and the fluidity of time, signifying life’s constant movement towards the inevitable, but also the continuity of life and the cyclical nature of existence.
The Tower
In the distant background, a boat is seen floating towards a tower. The tower is an emblem of the material and temporal structures we construct in life, and the boat’s journey towards it suggests the idea of transitioning to another state or plane of existence.
Keywords
Transformation, Endings, New Beginnings, Transition, Rebirth
General Overview
The Death card, with its ominous appearance, is often misunderstood. It rarely, if ever, signifies a physical death. Instead, it is a powerful symbol of transformation, marking the end of one phase and the dawn of another. The skeletal figure represents the inevitable and natural cycle of life, where endings give rise to new beginnings. As the sun sets in the background, it promises that it will rise again, illuminating the cyclical nature of existence.
This card indicates significant changes and transitions, suggesting that there’s a need to let go of old habits, beliefs, or situations to make way for something new and more aligned with one’s higher self. Resisting this change can lead to unnecessary pain and stagnation, but embracing it will pave the way for personal growth and evolution.
The white rose held by the Death figure symbolizes purity, suggesting that this transformative process has a higher purpose and will eventually lead to a state of clarity and enlightenment. The sun rising between the two towers in the distance is a reminder that every ending has a new beginning.
Character
Personality of the Individual
Having experienced significant upheavals, they can now face various situations with calm, appearing cold on the outside but actually controlling emotions with strong willpower.
Work Philosophy
They have their own subjective views on matters and will implement their ideas by various means, regardless of who tries to change their decisions with any method.
Emotional Outlook
Having gone through separations and reconciliations in relationships, they no longer hold any expectations or believe in their own happiness, often testing their partners through actions or words.
Financial Perspective
They have a natural talent for investment and financial management, maximizing the use of money even if they don't earn much, with unique views on handling finances.
How to Deal with the Individual
They cannot share their feelings with others and value their privacy highly. You can discuss anything that doesn't involve their personal life, but don't try to pry into their affairs.
Representative Figures
Executioners, butchers, tax officials, military and police personnel, credit investigators, doctors.
Work
Work Situation
A significant change is encountered at work, and you must accept it without choice, even facing the possibility of forced resignation. Be prepared for the worst.
How to Solve Work Difficulties
Apart from letting go, you have no other choice. Instead of sticking to the original methods and principles, try to empty yourself and freely choose from various different plans.
Workplace Relationships
There is not much interpersonal interaction in this job. Everyone focuses on their own tasks, with different interests and personalities, making deep connections unnecessary.
How to Get Along with Your Boss
A mysterious boss whose thoughts you can't fathom no matter what. It's safest to follow orders and get things done without trying to guess their intentions.
Job Prospects
This job has run its course with you. If you can't change the job content or position, it's better to prepare to resign quickly.
Job Hunting/Changing Jobs
You might find a new job now, but you may need to make up your mind to change, as the new job could appear in an entirely unfamiliar profession or place.
Love
Love Situation
It's time to let go. If you can't let go of unsuitable people, how can you find your own happiness? Open your heart to change.
Possibility of New Romance
There is no chance for a new romance unless you completely let go of your ex. If you're still entangled, you'll remain single.
View on This Relationship
The relationship now requires significant changes to sustain it. Ending it might be an option, but no final decision has been made yet.
Sexual Attraction
There is a strong attraction in this relationship, and neither can let go of their sexual and emotional needs. The sexual relationship might lead to a new phase in your feelings.
How to Resolve Arguments
Both parties need some space to cool down. If you rush to force a decision, the conflict could escalate out of control.
Possibility of a Breakup
As long as one party proposes a breakup, the relationship should end. It's better to separate since the relationship can't be sustained.
Possibility of Reconciliation
This relationship is completely impossible to reconcile. The two might never meet again and have no further relationship. It's better to give up on this idea.
Friendship
Interpersonal Situation
You are relatively isolated in interpersonal relationships, which might make others think you're a bit arrogant. You have a strong us-versus-them mentality, seeing people as either friends or enemies.
How to Resolve Misunderstandings with Friends
The problem is so serious that this misunderstanding is hard to resolve immediately. You might need to consider the meaning of this friendship, perhaps it's time to let go.
Family
Family Situation
A family member may have passed away. Facing significant changes, you should first stabilize your emotions and complete the necessary tasks step by step.
Relationship with Elders
You are not close to the elders in your family and may have no contact at all. You have always been independent in handling matters and do not want to rely on them.
Relationship with Peers
You are an introverted person among your peers, with almost no interaction. You can always handle your own affairs and do not help others.
Relationship with Juniors
You rarely meet with juniors, lacking the time and energy to take care of them. This might cause some estrangement, with a weaker emotional bond.
Academics
Academic Situation
Facing a significant setback in studies, if you don't reform and re-energize your efforts, the situation will get worse, and it will be too late to remedy it.
Learning Methods
Your previous study methods were all wrong. You must start from scratch. If you can't make up your mind to change, you can ask teachers for better methods.
Relationship with Teachers
A very strict and fair teacher who doesn't show any mercy to students. Only your performance determines your grade; other pleas are useless.
Relationship with Classmates
It's better to have as little interaction with classmates as possible. This is a time to work hard on your own. If interpersonal relationships take up too much of your time, it's detrimental to your studies.
Finance
Financial Situation
It's a critical time for significant financial changes. If not handled well, it could lead to poverty. If you find any wrong decisions, let them go in time.
Investment Situation
All investments should be ended now, without leaving any loose ends, or there will be endless trouble. Don't believe anyone's sweet talk.
Purchasing Strategy
Start everything from scratch and don't let your previous experiences and habits influence you. If you can't rationally assess the situation, maybe you shouldn't make purchases.
Keywords
Resistance to Change, Stagnation, Delayed Transformation, Fear of Endings
General Overview
When the Death card appears reversed, it signifies a resistance to inevitable change or a delay in the transformative processes that life requires. One might be clinging to old habits, situations, or beliefs out of fear, thereby preventing the natural cycle of endings and new beginnings. This resistance might lead to stagnation and a feeling of being stuck in certain areas of one’s life.
It can also suggest a reluctance to face certain truths or realities, opting instead to remain in a state of denial. While the upright position encourages acceptance of change and the cyclical nature of life, the reversed position warns against getting too comfortable in the status quo, as it might be holding one back from growth and progress.
The card further hints at the possibility of experiencing a profound transformation, but only once one lets go of the fear and apprehension. It’s a call to confront the very things that are causing resistance, understanding that change, while sometimes painful, often leads to renewal and regeneration.
Character
Personality of the Individual
A person lacking willpower, who often feels powerless in the face of various difficulties and is reluctant to deal with situations even when they become uncontrollable.
Work Philosophy
A bit slow at work, always half a beat behind, giving others the impression of being inattentive, with no strong expectations or long-term plans for work.
Emotional Outlook
Still recovering from the emotions of a breakup and unable to sincerely give to another person, with a lingering fear towards relationships.
Financial Perspective
Not adept at handling money, a more passive individual who sometimes spends money inexplicably and later cannot account for where it went.
How to Deal with the Individual
Such individuals are often a bit distracted; when assigning tasks, it's necessary to remind them repeatedly and follow up on progress. However, they are not proactive in making friends.
Representative Figures
Relatives of the deceased, orphans, funeral industry workers, terminally ill patients, young people who have left home.
Work
Work Situation
May face forced resignation or significant changes at work; at this point, leaving could be a relief. If it's this hard, don't force yourself to continue.
How to Solve Work Difficulties
At this time, you should choose to wrap up or end things. Investing more manpower and resources won't solve the problem. Often, problems require a radical approach to be resolved.
Workplace Relationships
Everyone is in the same boat but not cooperating with each other. The result of everyone acting independently is being defeated one by one. If everyone adheres to a self-centered approach, cooperation becomes difficult.
How to Get Along with Your Boss
A very passive superior, most matters rely on you. Don't bother them with work-related issues; eventually, they will tell you to figure it out yourself.
Job Prospects
The worst in this job has already been experienced, and the damage has been done. Leaving is a better choice for you; staying means the situation remains as bad.
Job Hunting/Changing Jobs
It's not a good time to look for a new job. Perhaps you should wait until your situation improves before seeking employment that aligns with your future development.
Love
Love Situation
Perhaps you're not clear about it, but the two of you are truly incompatible. Continuing will only cause more harm to you; decisive change is necessary.
Possibility of New Romance
Even if a new partner has appeared, you won't notice. You must transform yourself completely to have the ability to discern who is the right new partner for you.
View on This Relationship
There are still many unresolved issues in this relationship, but most are not your fault. It depends on how the other party responds to see if they can be resolved.
Sexual Attraction
There is not a strong sexual attraction in this relationship, or both parties are somewhat ignorant about sex, so the sexual relationship will not be an important part of the relationship.
How to Resolve Arguments
Sometimes it's better to play dumb; acting too smart can actually hinder the relationship. If you can let go of the issue, the argument will naturally dissolve.
Possibility of a Breakup
At this time, the one who takes the initiative to break up will be more hurt, so it's more suitable for the other party to propose the breakup. It's better for you to be more passive and negative.
Possibility of Reconciliation
This relationship has transformed into another kind of relationship and can never return to being a romantic one. Even if both parties can become friends, they cannot become lovers again.
Friendship
Interpersonal Situation
You don't really work hard to maintain interpersonal relationships. If you have good friends, it's just a few. Most people are not familiar with you and don't know what's happening with you.
How to Resolve Misunderstandings with Friends
Sometimes it's better to let things be rather than trying to resolve them. Perhaps after a while, the issue will naturally change, and insisting on something at this time may not be meaningful.
Family
Family Situation
The family is facing an inevitable change. Everyone should work together to overcome the difficulties. If you just want to maintain the status quo, you will inevitably face greater failure.
Relationship with Elders
In the eyes of the elders, you are an independent person. Even if you try to explain, they still won't understand you, but they will give you enough space to express yourself.
Relationship with Peers
You don't stand out among your peers and are often overlooked. You don't like social activities with everyone and would rather do your own thing.
Relationship with Juniors
You don't interfere much with the affairs of juniors, allowing them to develop freely most of the time. However, if they encounter any problems, you will try your best to help them deal with them.
Academics
Academic Situation
Learning has stagnated. You're not quite clear about the current situation, so it's best to find a more alert classmate to help you out.
Learning Methods
The burden of learning has exceeded your ability. If you don't give up some things in time and try to take everything on, you will end up not learning anything well.
Relationship with Teachers
With teachers who don't quite match with you, it's best to keep a respectful distance and reduce interaction opportunities. The more they get to know you, the more they may dislike you.
Relationship with Classmates
You often have some arguments with classmates, but they don't cause much harm. You might experience classmates transferring out or new ones transferring in.
Finance
Financial Situation
Your current financial situation is very bad. You should consult an expert to reorganize it. If you cling to the current situation, you may end up with nothing.
Investment Situation
You should end all investments now and start again at the right time. If there is a partnership, it's even more important to exit quickly, otherwise, you may lose everything.
Purchasing Strategy
You should re-evaluate your purchasing plans. Don't buy things blindly. Perhaps after checking later, you'll find these things are of no use at all.