What they mean together
The Devil darkens The Magician's talent, and skill ends up being used to tie someone down, persuade, or get something at any cost. Be careful with nice words that hide a trap, whether they're yours or someone else's.
In love
Lots of attraction, but watch for power games and promises that go nowhere. Pay attention to what they do more than what they say.
Career and money
Strong ambition, or someone selling smoke and mirrors. Read any agreement carefully before you sign.
An example
If you ask about a business offer that sounds too good to be true and The Magician and The Devil come up, tread carefully. There's talent and a lot of persuasive power here, but maybe in service of interests that aren't yours. Read the fine print, ask what happens if it goes wrong, and don't let anyone rush you. It may also be about you, and the temptation to use your charm for something that deep down isn't good for you.
By position in the spread
In the past
Someone won you over with promises they didn't keep, or you were the one who gave in to an unhealthy ambition. Owning that helps you not repeat it.
In the present
There's a power game or a very attractive temptation on the table. You have the skill to come out fine, as long as you look coolly at what's being offered.
In the future
Watch out for a tempting proposal that could tie you down more than it seems. Be ready to ask uncomfortable questions before you say yes.
If they come up reversed
With The Devil reversed, you start to see the trick and break free from a dynamic that had you stuck. If The Magician is the reversed card, the manipulation becomes more obvious, or talent gets lost in excuses. With both upside down, the trap is exposed and you can cut ties.
Ask yourself who really benefits from what you're being offered.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Magician and The Devil a bad combination?
It's more of a warning than bad luck. It flags manipulation or runaway ambition, and your own wits are what keep you from falling for it.
Do The Magician and The Devil mean someone is lying?
It can be someone who tells you what you want to hear to get something. Watch for a while whether their actions match their words.
To read them separately, here is the meaning of The Magician and of The Devil. And if they came up in a three card spread, look at the position each one landed in too.