Upright keywords
Transformation, the end and the beginning, clearing old conditions,
Reversed keywords
Fear of change, stagnation, prompting change in others
As the old saying goes
Your last check should be to the undertaker — and it should bounce.
Planet
Saturn
Flowers
Lotus, pansy
Death description
Death, like the grim reaper in shining armor, rides in on a white horse and he takes the life of the King. But the death card does not necessarily mean death. This represents that life transitions, changes, and death come for everyone. In this game called life, no one comes out alive. Death carries the five pointed white rose on the flag, a sign of rebirth. And the path that runs through the major arcana continues on the other side of the card. You can see the pillars of The Moon card in the background. The sunrise represents a new beginning, which is perfectly natural after a sunset. This is not the end, it’s just a transformation. The other characters in the scene depict different ways that we react to change. The priest turns to spirituality, tradition, religion. The maiden is fainting. She’s in denial, overwhelmed, checking out, or self medicating. The child looks death in the eye, unafraid or in awe.
Upright meaning
Death is a sign that you are going through a very significant change or transition in your life. This is not necessarily a bad thing! Death can be one of the best cards in the deck. This card is like an exfoliating scrub, removing all of the dead weight that is not serving you any longer. It’s usually a situation where you can pinpoint an ending to one chapter, and the beginning of another, down to the exact day and time. For example, a break up, losing a job, or making a major lifestyle change that sets you up for bigger and better things.
And yes, sometimes this card can be a sign that you are grieving or you are dealing with the themes of life and death right now. It’s important to face your feelings head on, and not to avoid them. This change may come on in a very unexpected way. Be open to releasing attachments and letting go in a way that is for your highest and best good. Step into this new chapter with your head held high.
Reversed meaning
When the Death card is reversed, it is a sign that you are resisting this change or having difficulty letting go. This card is a like a state of limbo, unsure of what’s next, navigating new territory. Things simply will not be the same, but that’s not always a bad thing. You might need to grant or seek forgiveness in order to feel renewed. You might be detaching yourself as a form of protection, but the quickest way through a difficult or unexpected transition is to go straight through. Another interpretation of the Death card reversed is that you are going through a major personal transformation, and you are keeping it very private right now. Focus on what you need to remove or let go of in this moment.
Death quote
“Death is not an ending. It is a transformation. Death is the threshold of this life. Beyond it is something else, some mystery.” Ming-Dao Deng
Want to check in with your higher self?
Tarot helps you step back and consider the bigger picture. This is just a snapshot in time. All things shall pass! Let’s take a look at past, present, and future themes in your life and consider a new direction.