What is the Meaning of the Name Ashtart?
The name Ashtart is a feminine given name of Semitic origin. It is derived from the ancient Mesopotamian goddess Ishtar, who was associated with love, fertility, and war. The name has been used in various forms throughout history, including Astarte, Ashtoreth, and Astaroth. In modern times, it is most commonly used as an alternative spelling of the more popular name Ishtar.
Origin and History
The name Ashtart is believed to have originated in ancient Mesopotamia, where Ishtar was worshipped as a goddess of love, fertility, and war. She was one of the most important deities in the region and her cult spread throughout the Middle East and into Europe. In some cultures, she was known as Astarte or Ashtoreth. Her worship eventually spread to Greece and Rome, where she was known as Aphrodite or Venus.
In the Bible, Ashtart is mentioned several times as a pagan deity that was worshipped by the people of Canaan. She was also referred to as “the queen of heaven” in Jeremiah 7:18. In later Jewish tradition, she became associated with Lilith, a female demon from Jewish folklore.
Modern Usage
Today, the name Ashtart is still used as an alternative spelling for Ishtar. It can also be found in literature and popular culture. For example, it appears in Neil Gaiman’s novel American Gods (2001) and in the television series Supernatural (2005-2020).
The name Ashtart has also been adopted by some parents looking for an unusual but meaningful name for their baby girl. It has a strong connection to ancient mythology and carries with it associations of strength and power.