The word "Ashtareth" is spelled with the initial sound of /æ/, followed by the consonant cluster /ʃt/ and ending with the vowel sound of /ɛrəθ/. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /æʃtərəθ/. Ashtareth is believed to be a biblical name with the same meaning as the pagan goddess Ashtoreth. The spelling of the word Ashtareth can vary depending on the translation and context in which it is used. However, the phonetic transcription remains consistent.
Ashtareth is a term primarily associated with ancient religious and mythological beliefs, specifically within the context of the Canaanite and Phoenician cultures. In these ancient traditions, Ashtareth is regarded as a prominent deity, often identified as a goddess of love, beauty, fertility, and war.
Ashtareth is commonly depicted as a powerful and alluring female figure, captivating the hearts and minds of both mortals and immortals alike. She is celebrated for her seductive charm and magnetic presence, symbolizing desire, passion, and sensuality. Ashtareth is believed to possess the ability to bestow blessings upon her devotees, particularly in the realms of romantic love, procreation, and the growth of life.
Furthermore, Ashtareth holds a multifaceted nature, encapsulating contradictory qualities such as both nurturing and destructive aspects. She is believed to be capable of bringing forth fertility and abundance, yet also possesses the potential for chaos and upheaval. In some instances, Ashtareth is associated with the moon and the evening star, further emphasizing her connection to femininity, cycles of nature, and celestial bodies.
Throughout history, worship of Ashtareth has manifested in various forms and acquired different names. In different cultures, she has been referred to as Astarte, Ishtar, Inanna, or Aphrodite, reflecting the assimilation and adaptations of her worship within different societies. While the ancient beliefs and practices associated with Ashtareth have evolved over time, her archetypal essence as a goddess embodying love, beauty, fertility, and warfare continues to resonate in modern interpretations and artistic representations.
A goddess of the ancient Sidonians and Philistines, identified with Venus of the Romans.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.