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Adele plays out the story so well…Can you feel her pain?

“Sometimes a lesson learned, but sometimes it hurts instead…”

“… I’d hoped you’d see my face and you’d be reminded that for me, it isn’t over…”

The Devil can be difficult to confront. Not because he’s the big and scary master of darkness, but because to confront the devil is to confront oneself . The devil represents the negative side of ourselves that we try to hide. The key thing here is a lack of control, this is represented in the small chained and seemingly insignificant people in the bottom left hand side of the image.

Whatever it is that the devil represents, it has a hold on us, we are bound to it and feel as though we don’t have the strength to break free. If you frequently see the devil card in your spreads then Tarot could be trying to tell you that it’s time to confront these negative aspects of your personality or summon the strength to break free from whatever it is that controls you.

The devil can represent many things, but the thing that mostly spring to mind when I see this card is addiction. Addiction is a prime example of  that which quietly controls us. Alcohol, drugs, gambling; all these things we know are bad for us yes we’re compelled by some force to continue to self destruct.

A person who regularly sees this card will need to muster the level of strength and will-power available in the Strength or Ace of Swords cards to break free of these chains. The lesson here though isn’t about will-power, that’s the next step, first we have to accept, realise and acknowledge that this flaw even exists within us.

It’s like the alcoholic or gambler who won’t admit he has a problem; he can’t begin a journey to recovery without first acknowledging the problem. To do that he has to finally face the ugly side of himself  and that’s not an easy thing.

Breaking a life long habit is difficult for any of us, we are creatures of habit and we find comfort in what is familiar to us. The lesson the devil teaches can even translate into the suffering experienced in an abusive and controlling relationship. It’s a common story; a physically or mentally abused spouse might stay in the relationship for years, knowing deep down that they need to escape but lacking self confidence and self-esteem they remain a victim.

There’s also an intensely sexual element to the devil card, I feel it can represent sexual fantasies and pleasures that may be a little taboo. It could represent someone who isn’t comfortable with their sexuality and feels they can’t be open about it.

The devil can put a sexual slant on a relationship. If it came up in a relationship spread it could be hinting that the relationship is based on sexual gratification rather than true love and affection. Although it could signify a deeply intense, lustful and passionate affair, it’s unlikely  there will be much substance beyond that.

Another negative trait associated with the devil card is materialism, it could be warning of an over materialistic attitude. Too much focus on money can mean the we forget about the things in life that are truly precious. Whilst it’s important to strive for success and greatness we should never forget about health, family and love.

So all in all the devil card may seem somewhat negative in its essence, but like all the tarot cards there are both positive and negative elements. Facing our demons and challenging ourselves to become a better version of ourselves is the first step in a progressive journey. Without learning the lesson taught here there’s no way forward we’re simply left to self destruct.

• Leadership
• Impulsive
• Short Tempered

The King of Wands has a vibrant spirit, warm, generous and charismatic. He is enthusiastic and impulsive and throws himself into new projects and ideas. At worst he can be a little pushy and overbearing.

He’s no follower he’s a pioneer and often an inspiration to others. Like all fiery, creative types he is also possesses a hot head and wasn’t blessed with the virtue of patience.

• Loyalty
• Strength
• Creativity

The Queen of Wands embodies loyalty and warmth. She is imaginative, passionate, creative and fiercely independent. Her strong-willed nature can sometimes spill over and become somewhat bossy.

The Queen of Wands is upbeat and fun and radiates positive energy. Quietly self assured she accomplishes all she sets out to do.

• Change of Residence
• A Charming Young Man
• Adventure

The Knight of Wands is young, charming and elusive. He is hard to pin down because he is always off an adventure of some sort. This need to constantly seek new challenges and experiences means that he can be somewhat unreliable. However, his natural charm and optimism often mean he’ll be easily forgiven.

If the Knight of Wands represents a situation then the keyword is action. One should embrace their sense of adventure. Enthusiasm abounds with a desire embark on new challenges. This could even indicate a change of residence or maybe even setting up home in a new country.

• Good News
• Creative Ideas
• Beginnings

The appearance of the Page of Wands in a spread offers encouragement to the initial stirrings of creativity. One who is full of ideas may even begin to feel restless.

These initial glimpses of broader horizons must not be dismissed as mere fantasies. The energy which creates these stirrings should be harnessed and channelled.

A little motivation and planning is all that’s need to make these ‘dreams’ manifest into a reality.

• Overburdened
• Oppression
• Overcommitment

Although our ambitions may be within reach, to find the Ten of Wands in a spread indicates that we may be taking on too many responsibilities.

In the workplace, delegation may be required to restore balance. We may feel as though we’re juggling many tasks, or juggling our work and personal life.

In situations like this something has to give as the burden becomes too great. Careful and clever action must be taken to reduce the demands being made of us. We shouldn’t take on any more responsibilities, especially those that belong to other or we risk becoming oppressed.

• Strength
• Determination
• Stamina

When the Nine of Wands appears in a spread it usually warns of a time when a huge amount of inner strength will be required.

Even when we have been worn down with recent struggles and energy reserves are low still more determination is needed and our stamina is tested.

The strength is there if we looks deep enough; if there is a will then there will be a way.

• Travel
• Productivity
• New Activities
• Obstacles Overcome

The Eight of Wands has a positive and productive energy. There is much activity, the wheels are in motion and everything seems to be going well.

Previous obstacles and challenges have been overcome and a period of excitement and optimism ensue.

The Eight of Wands often indicates overseas travel.

There will be a clear stretch of productive, creative activity. Things will move swiftly in the direction they’re supposed to go.

• Competition / Rivalry
• Determination
• Courage

The Seven of Wands in a spread can highlight a time where courage and renewed determination are required. One has worked hard to gain is current position and may need to stand his ground.

One will need to ‘up their game’ if they is to fight off the competition.

Others may challenge one’s rights and a certain level of assertiveness will be required.

• Victory
• Public Acclaim / Recognition
• Award / Qualification

On a personal level the Six of Wands is one of the most favoured suit cards. It symbolises recognition for one’s hard efforts.

Challenges and obstacles have been overcome and your accomplishments have been recognised. One feels like they have been given the seal of approval.

• Struggle
• Petty Squabbles
• Constant Challenges

If you’re having one of those days, weeks or months when things just don’t seem to go the way you planned. Unexpected challenges and obstacles just keep popping up.

Small details hold back progress.

There could even be a person around you who is being competitive or difficult. One could be feeling highly irritated.

• Promotion / Advancement
• Moving Home or Work Environment
• Fresh Starts
• A Rest or Break
• Short Trip

The Four of Wands often reflects a time when one can pause his efforts briefly and celebrate early rewards after a time of hard work. This could literally mean a short trip away.

One should remember that this should only be a short pause as there is more hard work ahead before achieving your final goals and ambitions.

The Four of Wands can also represent changes for the better. Feeling settled in ones environment whether that be in the home or the workplace; achieving a certain level of stability.

• Achievement
• Letter of Acceptance
• Good Initial Results

The Three of Wands heralds a time when new projects have gotten off to a good start and a certain level of success has been achieved. One cannot rest on their laurels at this stage as there is still plenty of work to be done and many more plans to put in action.

There may be an opportunity for promotion or qualifications could be gained.

• Vision and Expansion
• Restlessness
• Decisions and Plans

The Two of Wands represents a time in life when initial stages of a project have taken shape but there is a desire for expansion and growth. Often this desire is accompanied by a feeling of restlessness and a need to broaden ones horizons.

The Two of Wands can also indicate partnerships. One could consult with a professional or expert regarding future plans.

• New Beginnings
• Creative Energy
• New Projects
• New Career / Study
• Birth
• Optimism

The Ace of Wands represents the powerful force of creative energy needed to launch new ideas, projects and ventures. A symbol of newness, the drive needed to turn dreams into reality.

Exciting possibilities emerge; there are feelings of optimism, confidence and ambition.