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Astaroth: From Ancient Goddess to Christian Demon

Astaroth: From Ancient Goddess to Christian Demon 1

A grotesque creature perched atop a massive dragon, furiously lashing its tail. His followers lay prostrate before him, performing enigmatic rituals. The sovereign was haughty and ruthless. This was Astaroth, among the mightiest of demons. Indeed, aside from Lucifer, he is the one most frequently mentioned in European magical tomes.

Observing the grotesque figure portrayed in ancient illustrations, it’s difficult to imagine it was ever a beautiful goddess. What led to the transformation of the lovely Astarte into the repulsive Astaroth? Moreover, why is the fate of the world so heavily reliant on him?

Astaroth: From Ancient Goddess to Christian Demon 2

At the origins of the image

Upon opening the most renowned magical grimoires from Europe’s distant past, one will observe a notable detail. Astaroth is consistently mentioned alongside Lucifer in these ancient texts.

Given the heightened interest in demonology during the Middle Ages, it’s evident that Astaroth was considered one of the most infamous and potent entities of the underworld. His prominence among demons may well have stemmed from his origins.

It’s astonishing to consider that the being now depicted as an unsightly, emaciated man—yes, this is the common portrayal of Astaroth—was once revered as a beautiful goddess. His name alone hints at this past. Yet, Astaroth has come to represent a distorted version of the image of Astarte.

Transfiguration of Astarte

Astarte, a stunning patron goddess symbolizing beauty, love, and motherhood, was highly venerated within the Phoenician pantheon. Her worship extended beyond the Phoenicians to other cultures, including Jewish tribes.

Far from being linked to malevolence or adverse events, Astarte was regarded as a sorceress deity, endowed with the ability to wield magic and harbor magical powers.

Such attributes may have led to the gradual vilification of Astarte’s image. Monotheistic proponents intentionally maligned pagan deities, ascribing to them malevolent acts, wickedness, and harmful intentions toward humankind.

In Astarte’s narrative, not only did she transform into an embodiment of sinister forces, but her gender also shifted. In a male guise, Astaroth likely appeared more akin to an evil demon than Astarte’s original feminine aspect.

Death and knowledge

Astaroth is a demon closely linked to death. He does not capture souls to transport them to the underworld’s shadowy realms. Yet, he is known for his “grave” wisdom. His minions are also demons of insight and necromancy.

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Astaroth represents the quest for knowledge, which is inherently positive. However, the nature of this knowledge is quite dark, tied to decay, death, and rituals involving the souls of the dead, and occasionally, the use of ashes. The appearance of Astaroth and his interactions with humans are subjects of fascination.

Disgusting or wise?

One of the most detailed descriptions of the demon is found in the ancient text “Lemegeton,” where Astaroth is depicted as a repulsive entity. He is described as a skeletal man with arms and legs adorned with tiny feathers, seated upon a dragon that breathes fire.

Yet, Astaroth’s appearance is not consistently horrifying. At times, he is portrayed as a normal individual clad in black and white garments. This particular color scheme may have been deliberately chosen to represent life and death, realms among which Astaroth dwells.

Astaroth: From Ancient Goddess to Christian Demon 3

Many believe that Astaroth’s “finest hour” will coincide with the end of the world, as foretold by various global religions. At that ultimate moment, the demon is expected to confront and defeat the Great Warrior, leading to the triumph of evil and the onset of the Apocalypse from its long dormancy.

Yet, this does not imply that Astaroth must wait until the world’s end to exert dominion. In fact, he is said to rule incessantly, engaging in vigorous activities among humans.

Legend has it that Astaroth seldom manifests on Earth, preferring to influence our realm through incarnations. These manifestations may be malevolent entities or dark lords sowing chaos. Nonetheless, Astaroth can also assume the role of a wisdom patron.

This being, seemingly more benevolent than others, aids in acquiring knowledge and may guide individuals to enlightenment. However, one should not mistake him for an angelic figure, as Astaroth’s actions are driven by self-interest, with little regard for others. In him, the dichotomies of good and evil, light and dark, are deeply entwined.

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