Description:
<jats:p>It has long been known that there is a significant connection between Aphrodite and Semitic goddesses. In Walter Burkert's recent words, ‘Behind the figure of Aphrodite there clearly stands the ancient Semitic goddess of love, Ishtar-Astarte.’ This was already recognized by Herodotus (1.105, 131) and Philo of Byblos (Eus.<jats:italic>Prep. evang.</jats:italic>1.812). I want here to note a curious and striking item of connection that has not been noticed.</jats:p>