Cult of Astarte

The Cult of Astarte was an ancient Middle Eastern religion centered around the goddess Astarte, associated with love, fertility, and war. Originating in regions like Canaan and Phoenicia around 2000 BCE, it involved rituals and offerings to honor her and seek her favor. Astarte was often depicted as a powerful, nurturing, and warlike deity, embodying both reproductive and martial aspects. Her worship influenced neighboring cultures and persisted for centuries through temples, festivals, and priesthoods. The cult’s practices and symbolism reflect ancient societies’ reverence for natural forces, human sexuality, and divine protection.