Astarte

Culture: Canaanite/Phoenician   Domain: Love, war, the planet Venus

Astarte, closely related to Mesopotamian Ishtar/Inanna, combines love and war in one figure across Canaanite and Phoenician religion, later spreading with Phoenician trade routes throughout the Mediterranean and influencing later goddess figures, including aspects of the Greek Aphrodite.

Associations

Love and desire, war and strength, the planet Venus, cross-cultural influence.

Ways people honor her (modern)

• Hold love and strength as fully compatible qualities in yourself
• Research her connections across Canaanite, Phoenician and later Mediterranean religion
• Keep a star token on the altar
• Reflect on confidence that doesn't require choosing between gentleness and power

Approach any deity with respect and do your own research. Practices vary widely between traditions, and modern devotional practice often goes beyond what survives in ancient sources.