Why are space marines called Astartes?

Why Are Space Marines Called Astartes?

In the vast universe of Warhammer 40,000, the Space Marines, also known as the Adeptus Astartes, are legendary warriors who fight for the Imperium of Man. But have you ever wondered why they’re called Astartes? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating history and lore behind this term.

The Name Astartes

According to the Warhammer 40,000 lore, the name Astartes is derived from the Old Terran word "Ash-Tar-Tas", which means "star-born" or "stellar". This name was given to the Space Marines because they were genetically engineered and implanted with gene-seed organs that allowed them to grow stronger and more resilient. The gene-seed was imbued with the power of the stars, making the Space Marines stronger and more resilient than mere mortals.

Astartes in Ancient Greek

Interestingly, the term Astartes has connections to Ancient Greek mythology. In Greek mythology, the goddess of love and war, Astarte (also known as Ashtoreth), was the daughter of the god Eli and the goddess Asherah. She was often depicted as a powerful and alluring goddess, associated with the stars and the mysteries of the universe. It’s likely that the name Astartes was inspired by this mythological figure, symbolizing the connection between the Space Marines and the power of the stars.

The Primarch Connection

Another important factor in the naming of Astartes is the primarchs, the genetically engineered sons of the Emperor of Mankind. The primarchs were the original gene-seed donors, and their DNA was used to create the Space Marines. As such, the name Astartes is a reflection of the primarchs’ connection to the stars and the power of the gods.

The Adeptus Astartes

In the Warhammer 40,000 universe, the Adeptus Astartes is the codex of the Space Marines, detailing their history, organization, and tactics. The codex is revered as a sacred text by the Space Marines, outlining their purpose and duty as warriors of the Imperium.

Key Points to Remember

Here are some key points to remember when considering the name Astartes:

• The term Astartes means "star-born" or "stellar" in Old Terran.
• The name has connections to Ancient Greek mythology and the goddess Astarte.
• The primarchs, the original gene-seed donors, played a significant role in the naming of Astartes.
• The Adeptus Astartes is the codex of the Space Marines, outlining their history, organization, and tactics.

In Conclusion

The name Astartes is a fascinating aspect of the Warhammer 40,000 lore, reflecting the connection between the Space Marines and the power of the stars. From the Old Terran word "Ash-Tar-Tas" to the mythological connections to the goddess Astarte, the name Astartes is a testament to the Space Marines’ legendary status as warriors of the Imperium. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Warhammer 40,000 or just starting your journey into the grim darkness of the far future, understanding the meaning behind the name Astartes can deepen your appreciation for the rich lore of this beloved franchise.