Astaroth of Canaanite Culture and Goddess of Venus and Sexuality

Astaroth is another fascinating figure who appears in various mythological, religious, and occult traditions, and is often associated with dark magic, witchcraft, and demonic power. Her representation and influence have evolved through different cultures and religious writings, and she is typically depicted as a demoness or fallen angel with significant ties to temptation and forbidden knowledge.

1. Astaroth in Ancient Mythology:

The figure of Astaroth originates from ancient Semitic mythology, where she is linked to various goddesses, often associated with fertility, war, and love.

• In ancient Canaanite religion, Astaroth (or Astarte) was a goddess of fertility and sexuality, worshipped across the ancient Mediterranean world.

• Astarte (the Greek form of Astaroth) was also worshipped by the ancient Phoenicians, and her symbols were often tied to the moon and warfare.

However, over time, particularly in the Abrahamic religions, her identity transformed from a goddess of creation to a figure associated with demonic forces, witchcraft, and the dark arts.

2. Astaroth in Christian Demonology (The Infernal Hierarchy):

By the Middle Ages, Astaroth became a key figure in Christian demonology and is listed as one of the Seven Princes of Hell. In this transformation, she is often depicted as an evil spirit or demoness in charge of witchcraft and dark knowledge.

• Astaroth is sometimes depicted as a fallen angel who was cast out of Heaven due to pride or rebellion. She was often believed to be a high-ranking demon in the infernal hierarchy of Hell.

• In occult texts, particularly in the Goetia (a 16th-century grimoire known as the Lesser Key of Solomon), Astaroth is summoned by witches and magicians to gain knowledge, power, or assistance in dark rituals. She is one of the 72 demons listed in the book, known for her knowledge of alchemy, philosophy, and secret lore.

3. The Dark Side of Astaroth: Witchcraft & Temptation

In various occult traditions, Astaroth is frequently associated with witchcraft because she embodies the temptation of acquiring forbidden knowledge and the desire for power.

Astaroth's Role in Witchcraft:

• Mastery over the Dark Arts: Astaroth is said to grant knowledge of magical secrets, spells, and forbidden rituals to those who invoke her. This makes her a figure of great interest to witches, sorcerers, and occultists seeking power or insight into the occult.

• Corruption of the Soul: Just as she provides forbidden knowledge, Astaroth is often seen as a tempter, leading those who seek her out down a dangerous path of moral corruption. Her teachings are said to bring great power, but at a high spiritual cost, often causing the practitioner's downfall into darkness.

• Manipulation and Temptation: Some texts describe Astaroth as a deceiver who entices people into making pacts with dark forces. Those who seek her out are often promised material gain or magical abilities but end up sacrificing their souls or becoming entangled in a cycle of corruption.

Connection to the Occult:

• Occult Rituals: In ceremonial magic and demonology, Astaroth is a powerful figure invoked in rituals to gain favor, knowledge, or influence. Some occultists believe that summoning Astaroth can provide access to hidden wisdom—such as theurgy (the practice of invoking gods or spirits for divination or power)—but it’s also seen as a dangerous act, often leading to demonic possession or mental decay.

• Satanic Symbolism: Because of her transformation from a goddess to a demoness in Christian demonology, Astaroth is often associated with Satanic rituals and witchcraft in which practitioners call upon her to gain dark wisdom or control over supernatural forces.