Death tarot card

XIII Death: complete tarot meaning



When Death appears upright in a love reading, it signifies transformation, endings, and new beginnings. This card symbolizes the end of one phase of your love life, making way for a fresh start or a major change in your romantic journey.

“I embrace change and transformation in my love life. I release the past to welcome new beginnings and growth.”

Key Meanings
  • Transformation and Renewal: Death signifies the end of something that no longer serves you, allowing for personal or relational transformation. This card often indicates the beginning of a new chapter in love.
  • Letting Go: This card encourages you to let go of old patterns, attachments, or relationships that are preventing growth.
  • Embracing Change: Death is not necessarily about physical death, but the end of a particular cycle or way of being. It’s a time to embrace change and trust that it will lead to new opportunities in love.
Interpretations by Situation
If Single:
  • Death suggests that you may need to let go of old emotional baggage, past relationships, or outdated beliefs about love in order to make room for something new and transformative.
  • This card calls for you to embrace change in your romantic life, whether it’s changing your approach to dating, your self-perception, or your emotional state.
  • A major shift in your love life is on the horizon, but you must first let go of what no longer serves you.
In a Relationship:
  • In an existing relationship, Death indicates that something is coming to an end—whether it’s a phase in the relationship or an old pattern of behavior. This ending will make space for growth, renewal, and transformation.
  • This card may signify the end of a toxic cycle or unhealthy behavior, and the relationship can be reborn with a new, more positive dynamic.
  • You and your partner may go through a significant transformation, either individually or together, that leads to a deeper and more fulfilling connection.
Reconnecting or Reconciliation:
  • For reconciliation, Death suggests that you must let go of past grievances, old wounds, or patterns that caused harm to the relationship.
  • Reconciliation may not happen unless both parties are willing to transform and shed the old energy that no longer serves the relationship.
  • The end of the old way of relating will allow the relationship to be reborn, either in a new form or with a renewed sense of commitment.
Final Message

Death upright is a powerful card of transformation in love. It’s a time to embrace change, let go of the past, and allow new, healthier cycles to emerge. Trust that endings make way for beginnings.

When Death appears reversed in a love reading, it suggests that there is a resistance to change, transformation, or letting go of something that no longer serves you. This card often indicates that a period of stagnation or emotional blockages is preventing the natural flow of endings and new beginnings. The reversed Death card signals that you might be holding on to the past, refusing to let go, or fearing the changes that need to happen for growth in your love life.

“I release the past and embrace change, allowing transformation and new opportunities for love to flow freely into my life.”

Key Meanings
  • Fear of Change: You may be resisting necessary transformation in your love life, whether it’s about ending a relationship or changing old patterns.
  • Stagnation or Blocked Transformation: There is a feeling of being stuck in a situation that isn’t evolving. Whether in a relationship or within yourself, there is a need for change that is not being embraced.
  • Holding onto the Past: Death reversed can indicate that you are holding on to something from the past, such as an old relationship, unresolved emotions, or unhealed wounds, which prevent you from moving forward.
  • Fear of Letting Go: The reversed Death card may suggest that you’re afraid of releasing something, even though it may be preventing new growth, love, or opportunities from coming into your life.
Interpretations by Situation
If Single:
  • The Death reversed card indicates that you may be avoiding the necessary emotional release from past relationships or hurts. There could be lingering feelings or attachments that you’re not ready to let go of, preventing you from moving forward and fully embracing new love.
  • You may also be holding onto old beliefs or fears about love, which are preventing you from opening yourself to new possibilities. This card calls for deep emotional healing and the release of past attachments before you can move forward with confidence.
  • Take the time to process past experiences and allow yourself to heal before seeking new relationships, so that you can approach love with a clean slate.
In a Relationship:
  • In an existing relationship, Death reversed suggests that the relationship may be stuck in a cycle or failing to evolve. There may be issues that both partners are avoiding or refusing to address, leading to stagnation or emotional blockages.
  • One or both individuals may be holding onto past mistakes, unhealed wounds, or patterns that need to be released for the relationship to grow. This card signals that transformation is necessary but is being resisted.
  • The relationship may need to go through a period of emotional release or change in order to move forward. It’s important to face the difficult truths or emotional work that needs to be done for healing and growth.
Reconnecting or Reconciliation:
  • If reconciliation is sought, Death reversed indicates that both parties may be unwilling to let go of past hurts or negative patterns that have been detrimental to the relationship. There may be emotional baggage or unresolved issues that need to be confronted before true healing can occur.
  • You may be holding onto the idea of what the relationship was, rather than accepting the necessary changes for it to move forward. Letting go of the past will be essential in allowing the reconciliation process to be successful.
  • Both partners need to release old grievances, grudges, or expectations and allow the relationship to transform into something healthier and more aligned with both individuals’ current needs.
Final Message

Death reversed in love signals that resistance to change is hindering progress. Whether you’re holding onto the past, avoiding emotional release, or resisting necessary transformation, it’s important to let go of what no longer serves you in order to create space for new beginnings. Allow yourself to embrace the natural cycle of endings and new starts for your love life to evolve.


When Death appears upright in a career reading, it signals transformation, endings, and new beginnings. This card represents a period of significant change, often leading to a rebirth or new phase in your career.

“I embrace transformation and trust that the changes in my career will lead to greater opportunities.”

1. Endings Leading to New Beginnings
  • Death represents the end of one chapter in your career, making way for something new and transformative. It’s time to let go of old habits, roles, or projects that no longer serve you.
  • Embrace the change and view the ending as an opportunity for growth. Let go of what is holding you back to make room for the new.
2. Transformation and Reinvention
  • This card signifies a period of profound transformation. You may be reinventing yourself professionally or making a major career shift.
  • Accept that change is inevitable, and see it as a positive force. Reinvent yourself and take advantage of the transformative energy available to you.
3. Clearing Away the Old
  • Death asks you to clear away outdated approaches or mindsets in your career. Anything that is no longer useful must be released for the sake of your future growth.
  • Let go of the past, whether it’s a job, a project, or a limiting belief. This process will lead to new opportunities and progress.
4. Embracing the Unknown
  • With Death comes uncertainty, but this card reminds you that the unknown holds great potential. Embrace the changes without fear.
  • While the future may feel uncertain, trust that the changes will lead to something better. Focus on the exciting possibilities ahead.
5. Personal Growth Through Letting Go
  • This period of change will challenge you to grow, even if it means letting go of familiar comforts. The end of one phase is a vital step toward personal and professional evolution.
  • Be open to transformation. Letting go of the old is necessary to make space for new opportunities and greater growth.
6. Rebirth and New Opportunities
  • Death often brings a new beginning or a rebirth in your career. The end of a chapter may lead to exciting, fresh opportunities and paths you had not considered before.
  • Look for new career opportunities or directions after a transition. Change brings fresh starts, and new prospects are waiting for you.
Final Message

Death (Upright) marks the end of one phase and the beginning of another. By embracing change and letting go of the old, you make room for transformation and new opportunities in your career.

When Death appears reversed in a career reading, it signals resistance to transformation, stagnation, or clinging to a job that no longer serves you. You may be afraid to embrace necessary change.

“I welcome change and trust that transformation leads to growth.”

1. Fear of Career Change or Transition
  • The reversed Death suggests that you are holding onto a job or career path that is no longer beneficial.
  • Embrace change—resisting transformation only prolongs discomfort.
2. Career Stagnation and Lack of Growth
  • You may feel stuck in your role, unable to progress or evolve professionally.
  • Identify what’s holding you back and take action to break free from stagnation.
3. Delayed Endings in the Workplace
  • This card can indicate that a job loss, resignation, or career transition has been prolonged unnecessarily.
  • If an ending is inevitable, accept it gracefully and move forward.
4. Holding onto Outdated Career Goals
  • Your aspirations may have changed, but you are still clinging to an old vision of success.
  • Reassess your career goals and align them with your current values and ambitions.
5. Avoiding Personal Growth in Your Career
  • The reversed Death warns against resisting professional development or avoiding new learning opportunities.
  • Step out of your comfort zone and embrace new skills and experiences.
Final Message

Death (Reversed) reminds you that transformation is necessary for success. Clinging to the past will only hold you back—embrace new beginnings.


Death tarot card, when upright, represents financial transformation, endings, and new beginnings.

1. Financial Endings & Rebirth
  • Death signifies the end of financial cycles, such as job changes, debt payoff, or restructuring finances.
  • Let go of outdated financial habits or unsuccessful ventures to make room for growth.
2. Major Financial Transformations
  • This card marks a transition, whether good or bad, leading to eventual improvement.
  • Embrace change—whether it’s a career switch, investment shift, or new budgeting strategy.
3. Clearing Financial Debts & Burdens
  • Debt elimination, financial restructuring, or lifestyle changes may be necessary.
  • Consider consolidating debts, reducing unnecessary expenses, and focusing on financial renewal.
4. Warning Against Fear of Change
  • Holding onto outdated financial structures can prevent growth.
  • Be open to change—sometimes losses pave the way for greater financial stability.
Final Message

Death upright in finance represents financial endings that lead to better beginnings. It advises embracing change and letting go of financial patterns that no longer serve you.

The reversed Death card signals financial stagnation due to a reluctance to embrace necessary changes. It warns of clinging to outdated financial habits, missed opportunities, or resisting transformation in financial matters.

1. Fear of Financial Change & Stagnation
  • The reversed Death card suggests avoiding financial transitions—sticking to a job that no longer serves you, resisting investment opportunities, or fearing necessary financial restructuring.
  • Change is inevitable. Instead of resisting, assess what financial shifts are necessary and take gradual steps toward transformation.
2. Clinging to Unsuccessful Financial Patterns
  • This card warns against repeating financial mistakes—continuing bad spending habits, staying in debt cycles, or holding onto unprofitable ventures.
  • Identify financial behaviors that no longer serve you. Be willing to let go of old habits and adopt new financial strategies.
3. Fear of Financial Loss & Insecurity
  • The reversed Death card can indicate financial anxiety—fearing loss so much that you avoid investing, taking risks, or making necessary financial changes.
  • Wealth-building requires calculated risks. Overcoming financial fear and embracing new opportunities can lead to growth.
4. Delays in Financial Progress
  • This card may indicate postponed financial changes—delayed raises, waiting too long to change careers, or hesitating to adjust investment strategies.
  • Don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back. Progress requires action.
Final Message

The reversed Death card warns against resisting necessary financial changes. Instead of fearing transformation, embrace financial evolution for long-term stability.


Death, symbolizing transformation, endings, and renewal.

1. Major Health Transformations
  • End of Old Habits: Death signals the shedding of unhealthy habits, allowing for a complete lifestyle shift that benefits overall well-being.
  • Health Rebirth: Represents a transformative period—whether through recovery from illness, a shift in diet, or a mental health breakthrough.
2. Emotional & Psychological Release
  • Letting Go of Toxicity: Encourages releasing emotional burdens, past trauma, or negative thought patterns that may impact health.
  • Embracing Change: Highlights the necessity of change for growth and healing, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.
Cautions & Balance
  • Fear of Change: Resistance to transformation may cause stagnation—embrace necessary shifts rather than clinging to old patterns.
  • Endings Lead to New Beginnings: This card is not about literal death but about the closure of one phase to make room for renewal.
Advice
  • Release What No Longer Serves You: Whether it’s an unhealthy habit, stress, or self-limiting beliefs, allow transformation to take place.
  • Embrace New Health Practices: Step into healthier routines with courage and commitment.
  • Trust the Cycle of Renewal: Change is necessary for healing—welcome it with openness.
Final Message

Death upright signifies profound transformation in health, urging you to release the old and step into a renewed, healthier version of yourself. It’s a time for rebirth, healing, and embracing necessary changes.

Death (Reversed), symbolizing resistance to change, stagnation, and fear of transformation.

1. Struggling with Necessary Health Changes
  • Fear of Letting Go: Holding onto unhealthy habits, relationships, or thought patterns that hinder healing.
  • Resisting Transformation: You may know what needs to change but find it difficult to take action.
2. Emotional & Psychological Stagnation
  • Clinging to the Past: Unresolved traumas or emotional baggage affecting well-being.
  • Denial About Health Issues: Ignoring symptoms or refusing to acknowledge the need for medical attention.
Cautions & Balance
  • Don’t Delay Important Health Decisions: Avoid postponing necessary treatments or lifestyle adjustments.
  • Embrace Growth: Change, while uncomfortable, is often the key to healing.
Advice
  • Let Go of What No Longer Serves You: Whether it’s a habit, mindset, or toxic environment, release what holds you back.
  • Be Open to Healing: True wellness comes from embracing change rather than resisting it.
  • Seek Support if Needed: Professional guidance can help ease the transition into healthier choices.
Final Message

Death reversed warns against resisting necessary transformation in health. It urges acceptance, letting go, and stepping into renewal rather than staying stuck in old patterns.


Death, as a symbol of transformation and spiritual rebirth, embodies the power of endings that lead to new beginnings. In its upright position, this card calls you to embrace change, release what no longer serves you, and step into a new phase of spiritual growth.

1. The Power of Transformation and Rebirth
  • Endings as Beginnings: Death does not signify physical demise but rather the shedding of old layers—beliefs, habits, relationships, or phases of life that no longer align with your soul’s evolution. Spiritually, this card affirms that change is necessary for growth.
  • Metamorphosis of the Soul: Much like a caterpillar dissolving before emerging as a butterfly, this card represents the deep transformation required to step into your next spiritual phase.
2. Surrendering to the Cycles of Life
  • Letting Go with Grace: Just as the seasons change, so too must we release old identities, patterns, and attachments. Death asks you: What are you clinging to that no longer aligns with your highest self?
  • Embracing the Unknown: While change can feel unsettling, this card reassures you that every ending is divinely orchestrated to lead you toward renewal and higher wisdom.
3. The Purging of the Old to Make Space for the New
  • Releasing What No Longer Serves You: Death invites you to clear emotional, mental, and spiritual clutter. This could be an outdated belief system, a limiting mindset, or an attachment to the past.
  • Making Room for Spiritual Growth: Just as a garden must be pruned to thrive, your soul requires space for new energy to take root.
4. Embracing the Phoenix Energy
  • Rising from the Ashes: This card is the symbol of rebirth and resurrection. If you’ve been through hardship, trust that you are emerging stronger and more aligned with your soul’s path.
  • Freedom Through Release: The act of letting go brings liberation. When you surrender to transformation, you free yourself from unnecessary burdens and open to divine guidance.
Spiritual Warnings & Balance
  • Beware of Resisting Change: Holding onto the past only prolongs suffering. If something is naturally ending, allow it to go with gratitude rather than fear.
  • Avoid Fear-Based Thinking: Death is not a loss but a transition. Trust that whatever is leaving is making space for something greater.
Actionable Practices
  • Ritual of Release: Write down what you need to let go of and burn the paper as a symbolic act of transformation.
  • Shadow Work Journaling: Reflect on the parts of yourself that are undergoing change—what aspects of your ego or identity are ready to be released?
  • Declutter Your Space: Clear out physical, emotional, and mental clutter to welcome fresh energy into your life.
  • Work with the New Moon: The dark moon is a powerful time for endings and new beginnings. Set intentions for your rebirth.
Final Message

Death upright is a call to embrace transformation, trust in the cycles of life, and release what no longer serves you. It teaches that every ending is a portal to new beginnings and that spiritual rebirth requires courage, faith, and surrender. Let go, embrace change, and step into the new with open arms.

Death reversed signifies resistance to transformation, fear of change, or stagnation. Instead of embracing endings and new beginnings, you may be holding onto the past, avoiding necessary growth, or struggling with an inner transition.

1. Fear of Change & Resistance to Transformation
  • Clinging to the Past: The reversed Death card suggests difficulty letting go of something that has already run its course—whether it’s an old belief, relationship, or phase of life. Are you afraid to release what no longer serves you?
  • Delaying the Inevitable: Transformation is necessary for spiritual growth. Resisting change only prolongs discomfort.
2. Stagnation & Blocked Growth
  • Spiritual Awakening on Hold: Death reversed can indicate that you are on the verge of a major breakthrough but are hesitating to step fully into it.
  • Feeling Stuck in a Cycle: Are you repeating old lessons instead of evolving? This card calls you to break free and embrace change.
3. Emotional or Energetic Attachments
  • Holding Onto What Needs to Be Released: Whether it’s old trauma, toxic habits, or limiting beliefs, this card warns that emotional baggage may be weighing you down.
  • Fear of the Unknown: The unknown can feel unsettling, but transformation always leads to renewal.
4. Resistance to Spiritual Surrender
  • Struggling to Accept What Is: Death reversed suggests that instead of flowing with life’s changes, you may be resisting reality.
  • Rebirth Requires Trust: This card reminds you that every ending is a new beginning—trust that something better is waiting on the other side.
Spiritual Warnings & Balance
  • Beware of Avoidance: Are you distracting yourself instead of facing necessary changes? Avoidance only delays growth.
  • Avoid Fear-Based Thinking: Instead of seeing transformation as an end, reframe it as a new opportunity.
Actionable Practices
  • Ritual of Release: Write down what you need to let go of and burn the paper as a symbolic act of surrendering to transformation.
  • Journaling on Resistance: Ask yourself, What am I afraid of losing? What is holding me back from stepping into a new chapter?
  • Energy Clearing: Take a cleansing bath, meditate, or use sound healing to release stagnant energy.
  • Embrace Change Mindfully: Make a small change in your daily routine as a symbolic step toward greater transformation.
Final Message

Death reversed is a call to release resistance, embrace necessary change, and trust in the process of transformation. It teaches that growth cannot happen if you cling to the past—true rebirth comes when you surrender with faith. Let go, step forward, and allow yourself to evolve into your highest self.


A transformative and intense individual. They embrace endings and rebirth, often guiding others through change as therapists, shamans, or life coaches.

A person stuck in the past, resisting change, or fearing transformation. They may struggle with letting go, leading to stagnation and personal decay.