Ashtaroth in the Bible
An ancient Canaanite city in Bashan, associated with King Og and pagan worship.
Ashtaroth was an ancient city in Bashan, east of the Jordan, named after the Canaanite goddess Ashtoreth. It served as the capital of King Og, the last of the Rephaim giants, and was conquered by Israel under Moses before being assigned to the half-tribe of Manasseh.
Modern Location
Identified with Tell Ashtarah in the Hauran region of southern Syria.
Key Biblical Events
- 1Capital city of Og, king of Bashan
- 2Conquered by Israel under Moses
- 3Assigned as a Levitical city to the Gershonites
Key KJV Scriptures
"After he had slain Sihon the king of the Amorites, which dwelt in Heshbon, and Og the king of Bashan, which dwelt at Astaroth in Edrei."
"And all that he did to the two kings of the Amorites, that were beyond Jordan, to Sihon king of Heshbon, and to Og king of Bashan, which was at Ashtaroth."
Spiritual Significance
Ashtaroth symbolizes God's victory over both physical giants and spiritual idolatry. Its conquest demonstrated that no enemy — however powerful — could stand against the purposes of God for His people.
Why Ashtaroth Matters
Ashtaroth holds a unique place in Scripture because it stands at the crossroads of God's covenant promises to His chosen people. With 3 major biblical events connected to this site — and key figures like Og, Moses, Joshua linked to its story — Ashtaroth is far more than a point on an ancient map. It is a place where God acted decisively in human history.
Rooted in the Old Testament narrative, Ashtaroth is referenced in 2 key scriptures that reveal God's faithfulness across generations. Ashtaroth symbolizes God's victory over both physical giants and spiritual idolatry. Its conquest demonstrated that no enemy — however powerful — could stand against the purposes of God for His people.
For today's believer, studying Ashtaroth is more than a geography lesson — it is an invitation to see God's faithfulness written across real places and real people. Every mountain, city, and river in Scripture reminds us that God works within history, not apart from it. When you read about Ashtaroth, you are standing on the same spiritual ground where Og encountered the living God.
Related Bible Characters
Frequently Asked Questions
Who lived in Ashtaroth?
Ashtaroth was the residence of King Og of Bashan, described as one of the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants.
Why is Ashtaroth significant?
It represents God's victory over formidable enemies and the dangers of pagan worship, as the city was named after the goddess Ashtoreth.
Explore Related Content
Related Bible Locations
Hebron
One of the oldest cities in the world — Abraham's home and David's first capital.
Gilead
Mountainous region east of the Jordan — famous for its healing balm and rugged warriors.
Hebron
City of the patriarchs — where Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are buried and David was first crowned king.
Bashan
The fertile region east of the Jordan famous for its oaks, cattle, and the giant King Og.
Where to go next
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