Ashtoreth

Ishtar’s Handmaiden

Ashtoreth

Description

Ashtoreth is Ishtar’s handmaiden, a goddess of prostitutes. In some areas of Shem, Ashtoreth and Ishtar are identified as being the same, with both names used interchangeably.

Rituals and Beliefs

Like Ishtar, Ashtoreth is worshipped in temples and at lavish shrines with rituals of orgiastic frenzy performed before sensuously carved idols of ivory. Temple prostitutes engage in sexual intercourse with those who come to worship and show their religious devotion.

Her Priests

The dancers of Ashtoreth symbolize sexual intercourse through the motions of their dancing. Sexuality in Shem is not considered base nor sinful. Prostitutes are servants of Ishtar, commanded to sleep with any worshipper for a fee.

Ashtoreth

Painting of Ashtoreth

ASHTORETH

(Intermediate Deity)

Pantheon: Shemite
Gender: Feminine
Regions: Shem
Representations:

• a virgin-harlot
• a fertile woman
• a teacher of prostitutes and young wives

Sphere of Power:

• Fertility
• Pleasure
• Power

Can Be Worshipped with Other Gods:

• With other Shemite deities

Conan Lore Archives
Hyboria.xoth.net
Faith and Fervour, Mongoose Publishing, 2006
Shem-Gateway to the South, Mongoose Publishing, 2006