Ašima

Introduction

Ašima is a Semitic goddess that was worshipped in Tayma and Samaria of Syrian origin.

In Semitic mythology, Ašima is often portrayed as a goddess of fertility, associated with abundance, growth, and the cycles of nature. She is revered for Her power to bring forth life and ensure bountiful harvests. Ašima’s role in Ugaritic mythology highlights her importance as a source of sustenance and a protector of life’s vitality. Her attributes and associations overlap with deities such as Astarte, and Atargatis, suggesting a shared cultural heritage and interconnectedness among Semitic pantheons.

In Hebrew scriptures, Ašima is a West Semitic goddess of fate related to the Akkadian goddess Šimti and Arabian goddess Manāt, who was a goddess in her own right but also a title of other goddesses such as Damkina and Ištar. The name Ašima could be translated as “the name, portion, or lot” depending on context. Ašima is mentioned specifically by name in Kings 17:30. Some interpretations suggest that Ašima was represented as a hairless he-goat, while others propose that it was in the shape of a cat.

See also

• Šangila
• The Pantheon of Tayma’
• List of Deities

Sources

• The Aramaic pantheon of Tayma
• Ashima Goddess: Unveiling the Secrets and Significance of this Semitic Deity
• Eshem and Ashima: gods of the "Name"

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