Rider Waite Card Meaning - Death

XIII  –  Death - Endings

The stark image of the Grim Reaper riding his high white horse over kings, pontiffs, and children alike is perhaps one of the most startling images of the Waite pack. But all is not what it seems: on the right-hand side of the card, an area designated east by the conventions of map-making, the sun rises between two pillars. It is morning, and from this, we understand that with death comes a new day. One situation ends, and in its wake, a new one begins. The card portrays the life/death/life cycles that result in the eternal renewal of nature. That which dies gives way to new life.

It tends to strike a note of terror, but the Death card in a reading most usually signifies an ending that makes way for a new beginning. There can be sudden and drastic changes in home, marriage, work, lifestyle, and possibly even spiritual awareness, but the changes are ultimately for the best. Old circumstances die away, and in their wake, new ones arise. Death should never be predicted.

Reversed, the Death card also tells of sudden changes, but they are not as dramatic or drastic. It can also indicate an unwillingness to change and grow, leading to atrophy and stagnation accompanied by low spirits and possibly even depression. Figuring in a relationship scenario, this card reversed shows pointless, destructive acts that cause a slow death of intimacy.