Family and Origin
1. Parents: Ishtar is the daughter of the moon and is often associated with the moon god Sin (Nanna) and the sun god Shamash (Utu).
2. Partner: She had several lovers, including Dumuzi (Tammuz), the shepherd god.
3. Sister: Ereshkigal, the goddess of the underworld, was her sister, which led to some of the most fascinating myths about Ishtar.
Myths and Stories
1. Ishtar's Descent into the Underworld: One of the most famous myths about Ishtar is her descent into the underworld to save her beloved Dumuzi. During this journey, she loses all her powerful attributes and is killed by her sister Ereshkigal, but eventually returns to the world of the living.
2. The Epic of Gilgamesh: In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Ishtar plays a prominent role. She tries to seduce Gilgamesh, but when he rejects her, she sends the Bull of Heaven to sow destruction.
3. War and Victory: Ishtar was also a war goddess and was often depicted as a warrior, armed and ready for battle. Her duality as a goddess of both love and war made her unique in the pantheon.
Symbolism and images
1. Ishtar is often depicted with symbols such as the eight-pointed star and the lion, which represent her strength and influence. She is often depicted with wings, which emphasizes her heavenly status.
Ishtar's role as a goddess of both love and war makes her a fascinating and versatile figure in Mesopotamian mythology. Her stories and symbols have retained their influence over the centuries.
Ishtar, also known as Inanna, may have a deep and multifaceted meaning for people of faith, given her role in Mesopotamian mythology. Here are some of the ways in which people of faith might see and worship Ishtar:
Love and Fertility
1. Goddess of Love: Ishtar is often seen as a goddess of love, sexuality, and beauty. People of faith can call on her for help with romantic relationships, passion, and attraction.
2. Fertility and Growth: Ishtar also plays an important role as a fertility goddess. People can venerate her to promote fertility, both in a personal sense (for example, for having children) and in a broader sense (for agriculture and prosperity).
Strength and War
1. Patron Goddess: As the goddess of war and strife, Ishtar can be seen as a powerful patron goddess. People can call on her for courage, strength and protection in difficult situations.
2. Victory and Triumph: Ishtar's association with war also means that she can be revered for victories and triumphs, both in personal conflicts and in larger struggles.
Transformation and Healing
1. Descent and Resurrection: The story of Ishtar's descent into the underworld and her return to the world of the living can symbolize transformation and rebirth. People of faith can call on her for healing and personal growth, especially in times of crisis or change.
Rituals and Ceremonies
1. Feasts and Celebrations: Ishtar can be central to various rituals and holidays that celebrate love, fertility, war, and transformation. Offerings, dances, and other ceremonies may be performed in her honor.
2. Amulets and Symbols: Symbols of Ishtar, such as the eight-pointed star and the lion, can be used in amulets and talismans to invoke her powers and seek protection.
Ishtar's multifaceted nature makes her a powerful and versatile goddess who can be honored and revered by superstitious people in a variety of ways.
For religious people, this god Ishtar can improve your situation and bring the strength and protection to your home. Choose one or more of our items to welcome this god into your home and experience the blessings of Ishtar in your life.
