Major Arcana · 13
Death
死神
Upright Meaning
Death rides on a white horse, carrying a banner of the mystic rose—symbol of life and rebirth. This card rarely means physical death; rather, it represents profound transformation, the ending of one chapter so another may begin. What must die for you to be reborn? Death clears away the old, the stagnant, the no-longer-serving to make room for new growth. While this transformation may be painful, it is necessary and ultimately liberating. The Death card promises that what rises from these ashes will be more authentic, more alive than what came before. Do not fear the ending—embrace the transformation.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, Death suggests resistance to necessary endings, clinging to what should be released, or a transformation that is incomplete. You may be holding on to relationships, beliefs, or situations that have run their course, preventing new growth. It can indicate fear of change so strong that you would rather stagnate than evolve. The reversed Death asks: what are you refusing to let die? What transformation are you resisting? Sometimes this card indicates that the change is happening internally, even if external circumstances have not yet shifted.
Love Meaning
In love readings, Death signals a significant transformation in your romantic life. An old relationship pattern, a chapter of love, or even a relationship itself may be ending. While this can be painful, Death promises that this ending makes space for something new and more authentic. For those in relationships, it may indicate the death of old dynamics and the birth of a deeper connection. For those seeking love, it suggests releasing past heartbreak to open yourself to new possibilities. Love transforms; let it.
Is Death a Yes or No?
"Death says NO to the old but YES to transformation—an ending is necessary for a new beginning."
NO
Relationship questions
NO
Work & finance
NO
When card is inverted
Frequently Asked Questions
Death rides on a white horse, carrying a banner of the mystic rose—symbol of life and rebirth. This card rarely means physical death; rather, it represents profound transformation, the ending of one chapter so another may begin. What must die for you to be reborn? Death clears away the old, the stagnant, the no-longer-serving to make room for new growth. While this transformation may be painful, it is necessary and ultimately liberating. The Death card promises that what rises from these ashes will be more authentic, more alive than what came before. Do not fear the ending—embrace the transformation.
Popular Death Combinations
Discover meanings when paired with other cards
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