Astarte (ancient Near Eastern goddess)

Astarte was an ancient Near Eastern goddess associated with love, war, and fertility. Revered in various cultures, including the Canaanites and Phoenicians, she was often linked to the planet Venus. Astarte embodied the duality of nurturing and conflict, reflecting aspects of both love and battle. Her worship included rituals and offerings, highlighting her importance in agriculture and family life. By symbolizing the balance of creation and destruction, Astarte played a significant role in the spiritual and social life of the societies that honored her, influencing art, mythology, and religious practices throughout the region.