ASHTAROTH Meaning and
Definition
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Ashtaroth is a noun that refers to a plural form derived from the singular noun "Ashtaroth," which is an ancient Near Eastern goddess associated with fertility and love. In historical and mythological contexts, Ashtaroth often represents the female counterpart of the male deity Baal. The term originates from the Hebrew language and appears in several different versions, including "Ashtoreth" and "Astarte."
Ashtaroth typically embodies feminine beauty and grace, and is often depicted as a goddess of sensuality and passion. In ancient Mesopotamian religious beliefs, she held immense influence over various aspects of life, including agriculture, motherhood, and sexual desire. Cults and worship dedicated to Ashtaroth were prevalent throughout the ancient Near East, and her popularity extended to the Phoenicians, Canaanites, and other neighboring civilizations.
Due to her association with fertility and love, religious practices related to Ashtaroth occasionally involved rituals and ceremonies involving sacred prostitution as a means to honor the goddess and invoke her blessings. These practices were intertwined with the belief in her ability to grant successful harvests and ensure prosperous relationships.
In contemporary usage, the term "Ashtaroth" is more frequently encountered in ancient texts, scholarly discussion, or fiction that draws inspiration from ancient mythology. It serves as a reminder of the rich religious and cultural tapestry of the ancient Near East, providing insights into the diverse range of beliefs and practices that flourished in that era.
Common Misspellings for ASHTAROTH
- zshtaroth
- sshtaroth
- wshtaroth
- qshtaroth
- aahtaroth
- azhtaroth
- axhtaroth
- adhtaroth
- aehtaroth
- awhtaroth
- asgtaroth
- asbtaroth
- asntaroth
- asjtaroth
- asutaroth
- asytaroth
- ashraroth
- ashfaroth
- ashgaroth
Etymology of ASHTAROTH
The word "Ashtaroth" comes from the Canaanite and Hebrew languages. In Canaanite mythology, Ashtaroth referred to a goddess of love, fertility, and war, often identified with the Mesopotamian goddess Ishtar. In Hebrew, the term "Ashtaroth" is plural, and it is used to refer to various Canaanite fertility goddesses or idols. The word itself is believed to be derived from the Canaanite word "aṯtart" or "aṯtiratu", which are forms of the name of the goddess Ishtar. So, the etymology of the word "Ashtaroth" is rooted in the ancient Canaanite and Hebrew languages, ultimately tracing back to the name of the goddess Ishtar.
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