Death Symbolism

Symbolism Found in Death

The Death card in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck is rich with symbolism, woven intricately into its imagery to convey its deeper meanings.

The Skeleton

At the centre stands a skeletal figure astride a white horse. The skeleton, a universal symbol of death, represents the bare bones of existence, stripped of all but the essential. Yet, it is donned in armour, suggesting that transformation is inevitable and impervious to resistance.

The White Horse and Banner

The white horse represents purity, signifying that death leads to new beginnings and a cleansed state. The black banner adorned with a white rose speaks to the beauty and promise of rebirth and renewal. It reminds us that endings are not devoid of hope but are fertile grounds for new life.

The Rising Sun

In the background, the rising sun peeks over the horizon, symbolising dawn after darkness. This imagery reinforces the idea that life continues and that each ending paves the way for a fresh start. It urges us to accept the natural flow of life, trusting that after loss, there will always be a new day with opportunities for growth.

The Fallen Figures

Beneath the horse, figures from all walks of life lay prostrate, symbolising that transformation is a universal experience. It transcends status, age, and belief, reminding us that change is the great equaliser. This aspect of the card pushes us to reflect on our own lives and the changes we are resisting or embracing.

The Death card, with its call for transformation and renewal, offers a powerful opportunity for introspection. Embrace this card as an invitation to journey inward, explore your inner landscape, and uncover the aspects of your life that are ripe for change. Through this process, you may find the courage to let go and the wisdom to embrace the new.