I love getting home from a long trip. Sleeping in your own bed, dumping the contents of your suitcase directly into the laundry machine and, of course, demonic research and documentation. Now, I know what you’re thinking: Do these demons ever wear shirts? Answer: Not in my Hell, they don’t. But in the case of Astaroth, the nudity is actually, maybe, part of the mythos.
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Origins of Astaroth
The creature known as Astaroth was likely part of the original fall during Lucifer’s war on heaven. That’s why he sits with the title of Duke or Prince along with Beezlebub and Lucifer themselves, as a sign of gratitude.
As far as the name goes, sources suggest that “Astaroth” came from the Phoenician goddess Astarte. Why that derivation occurred, however, remains a mystery; as a benevolent female goddess, she shares no traits with the male demonic ruler.
Appearance
There is some room for interpretation depending on which source you use. One says he is a “strong duke” and “foul angel” who rides a dragon and carries a viper. Another source calls him “a nude man with dragon-like wings, hands and feet, a second pair of feathered wings after the main, wearing a crown, holding a serpent in one hand, and riding a wolf or dog.”
Okay, so, the nudity isn’t universally acknowledged. But it definitely more fun.
Powers and Abilities
As stated above, Astaroth rules in Hell at the same level as Lucifer and Beezlebub, with as many as forty legions under his command. His chosen methods of seduction and corruption are laziness and self-doubt.
But as with many demons we discussed here, some of his other functions are borderline helpful. For example, he teaches mathematical sciences and handicrafts, can make men invisible and lead them to hidden treasures, and answers every question formulated to him. He also promotes rationalized philosophy, which is basically the practice of using knowledge and logic as the source of truth. Of course, when the alternative source is faith and religion, it’s no surprise that the church isn’t going to be your biggest fan.
He was also said to give to mortal beings the power over serpents. Also not going to make you any friends in heaven, but for a Slytherclaw like myself, it sounds pretty awesome.
How to Defeat Astaroth
Did you know that each of these demons (and numerous others) have a ruling angel? It’s taken me a full year to stumble upon this information, but better late than never.
Reiaiel, “The Expected God”
As the heavenly avenger against all enemies of religion, it makes sense that Astaroth would be Reiail’s number one enemy. She also protects against all enemies visible and invisible (the latter of which could be Astaroth’s domain), and rules over divine philosophy. Basically, she promotes religious truth and zeal, and seeks to destroy impiety and all non-religious modes of thinking.
And that’s another reason to love the ruling angel addition–the irony of all this practically writes itself.
Happy Monday, monsters! It’s good to be back.
