

Death
Holder of endings and transformation
You may think you know me well
In the books of history, I always have a page
All things living find me disarming
Little do they know, I just bring change
I am Death of the Tarot
Death XIII Card Meaning
The Death tarot card is one of the most popular cards in the tarot deck. Mostly because it is a “death” card and is the most misinterpreted tarot card because the imagery is dark and graphic. This card is about transformation and new beginnings. This card urges us to embrace change in order for growth.
Attributes:
Symbolizes: Change and transformation
Planet: Pluto
Zodiac: Scorpio
Element: Water
Represents: Endings, let go of the old and don’t hold on to the past
Number : 13
Advice: Embrace Change, do not fear it or run from it. Make way for new growth
What you should know: Don’t be afraid of this card, while initially scary, the transformations will be positive, often it means an end to a bad situation and things will be better. A new beginning is on the way. OR it could simply mean you out grew a old situation and moving on or removing it.
Yes or No Card: Generally the Death card upright is No. Reversed is no
Upright Death Card Meaning:
Your life is about to undergo a major change, transition, or transformation, which means the old version of you has to "die" in order for the new one to emerge. It is a scary time because you may not know what the future holds. Despite your fears, you should welcome this change because it opens a door to new experiences in your life, usually for the better.
It is also a lesson that Death teaches us to let go of unhealthy attachments in our lives. Learning to keep moving forward is one of Death's lessons.
Upright Love Meaning |
Upright Career Meaning |
Upright Finances Meaning |
Changes in romantic life, changes in relationship, end of a relationship |
Job or career transition, leaving unfilling career |
Financial loss, changing views of money, financial hardship ending. |
Upright Death Tarot Meaning: Love
When it comes to love and relationships, the Death tarot card can suggest being stuck in unhealthy emotional patterns. Whether you are already in a relationship or considering one, change is necessary for its growth. This card may also indicate the need to end a troubled relationship. Although this may be challenging to hear, transformations within the relationship can lead to personal growth for both partners.
In less stressful terms, the Death tarot card can represent the beginning of a new era, such as an engagement. (other cards should support this)
Upright Death Tarot Meaning: Career
If you've been thinking about changing your career, the upright Death card may be urging you to take action. You may have recently experienced a lack of motivation, interest, and satisfaction at your current job. If you don't make a decision soon, circumstances in life could push you towards change. It's possible that you're holding onto your current job because it provides stability and security, but if you're not satisfied or challenged, there's more at stake than just your comfort.
Upright Death Tarot Meaning: Finances
If you receive a Death tarot card, you could to suffer a financial loss. This period is also an opportunity for you to transform your relationship with money and what is important to you. Alternatively, this can mean an ending to financial hardship.
Reversed Death Tarot Meaning:
Reversed Death General Meaning:
The concept of Death reversal still revolves around change, but it appears that you have been resisting it. Perhaps you are apprehensive about releasing the past, or uncertain about what changes are necessary to move forward. However, clinging onto the past and rejecting change can hinder your future and leave you feeling stuck. It would be beneficial to evaluate your approach to change in your life. You may discover that your fears of the unknown have been preventing necessary changes. While fear may still exist, have faith in yourself and take a step forward. Time will continue to pass, so fighting against it will only lead to regret. Do not let Death be a symbol of remorse, especially if you take heed of its warning.
Reversed Love Meaning |
Reversed Career Meaning |
Reversed Finances Meaning |
Resisting change in relationship, failure to change negative patterns |
Lack of growth, remaining at an unfulfilling job, negative patterns at work |
Unhealthy financial habits, failure to adapt to financial loss |
Reversed Death Tarot Meaning: Love
When it comes to relationships and romance, the reverse Death tarot card can signal strong resistance to change. You maybe hanging on to a relationship that has become stagnant and no longer serves you. It is possible that you may also be dependent on the relationship, or that you stay together simply because you feel comfortable, obligated, or afraid of being alone.
If you are single, Death reversed can suggest that you have to avoid negative patterns in order to engage in a loving relationship. Alternatively, old relationships can also be revived.
Reversed Death Tarot Meaning: Career
Similar to the upright version of this card, you may feel pressure to make a shift in your job or career path. However, if this card appears in reverse, you may find yourself resisting the change instead. Despite being in an unhealthy environment, or just unhappy, you may choose to stay put. It's important to remember that change is inevitable not just in our careers but in all aspects of our lives. Rather than pushing it away, we should learn to welcome it. When we hold onto something that no longer serves us, we watch it slowly deteriorate and drain us. This card can also indicate the recurrence of negative patterns in your workplace.
Reversed Death Meaning : Finances
You may be facing a decrease in financial stability which can be difficult, it's important to acknowledge and adjust to this shift. The sooner the better. This may require modifying your spending habits during this transitional phase, which can be challenging if there are certain things you view as necessities. However, rather than resisting and refusing to adapt, try embracing these shifts as opportunities for personal growth and reflection on your relationship with money.
Frequently asked questions
No, Death almost never refers to literal death. Instead, it represents profound transformation, endings, and the necessary closure of one chapter before a new one begins. This card signals transition — clearing away what no longer serves you so you can evolve into something stronger, freer, and more aligned with your purpose.
No, Death almost never refers to literal death. Instead, it represents profound transformation, endings, and the necessary closure of one chapter before a new one begins. This card signals transition — clearing away what no longer serves you so you can evolve into something stronger, freer, and more aligned with your purpose.
In personal or emotional contexts, Death often indicates that an old cycle is ending — such as outdated beliefs, stagnant dynamics, or patterns you’ve outgrown. In relationships, it may point to deep change that transforms the connection or clears the way for new beginnings. While the process can feel intense, it ultimately leads to renewal and liberation.
In personal or emotional contexts, Death often indicates that an old cycle is ending — such as outdated beliefs, stagnant dynamics, or patterns you’ve outgrown. In relationships, it may point to deep change that transforms the connection or clears the way for new beginnings. While the process can feel intense, it ultimately leads to renewal and liberation.
The Death card encourages you to release resistance and trust the natural process of transformation. Clinging to the past can prolong discomfort, but acceptance allows space for new growth. This card’s deeper message is about rebirth — endings aren’t losses, but invitations to step into a more authentic, empowered version of yourself.
For the complete upright and reversed meanings of the Death card, visit the Tarot Card Meanings library on www.tarotmasterguide.com.
The Death card encourages you to release resistance and trust the natural process of transformation. Clinging to the past can prolong discomfort, but acceptance allows space for new growth. This card’s deeper message is about rebirth — endings aren’t losses, but invitations to step into a more authentic, empowered version of yourself.
For the complete upright and reversed meanings of the Death card, visit the Tarot Card Meanings library on www.tarotmasterguide.com.