Ishtar is the Babylonian goddess of love and fertility. She was worshipped by the ancient Mesopotamians as the primary deity associated with love, beauty, sex, and war. Ishtar was also known as the goddess of the morning and evening star, representing the planet Venus.

According to Babylonian mythology, Ishtar was the daughter of the moon god Sin and the sister of the sun god Shamash. She was often depicted as a beautiful young woman adorned with symbols of fertility such as a sheaf of wheat or a vase overflowing with grain. Ishtar was believed to bring prosperity, abundance, and joy to those who worshipped her.

One of the most famous myths associated with Ishtar is the descent into the underworld, where she goes in search of her lover Tammuz. In this story, Ishtar must pass through seven gates, removing an article of clothing at each one, before finally arriving in the underworld naked and vulnerable. This myth symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, as well as the power of love to overcome even the darkest challenges.

Today, Ishtar continues to be a popular figure in modern Pagan and Wiccan traditions, where she is honored as a symbol of feminine power, sensuality, and creativity. Many people still invoke Ishtar in rituals and ceremonies related to love, fertility, and abundance.

For more information on Ishtar and her significance in Babylonian mythology, you can visit ancient.eu or britannica.com.

In conclusion, Ishtar is the Babylonian goddess of love and fertility, revered for her beauty, power, and influence over the natural world. Her myths and symbols continue to inspire and enchant people around the world, reminding us of the enduring power of love and the cycles of life.

Sign Up