Asherah

Asherah is an ancient goddess associated with fertility, motherhood, and the sea, primarily worshipped in the Near East, particularly among the Canaanites and ancient Israelites. She is often depicted as a nurturing figure and is sometimes represented by a sacred tree or pole. In historical texts, including the Hebrew Bible, her worship is frequently mentioned, often in opposition to Yahweh worship, reflecting the cultural tensions in ancient Israelite society. Scholars believe that her veneration highlights the diverse religious practices in the region before monotheism became dominant.