Ebisu is a Japanese god of luck, wealth, and prosperity. He is particularly associated with the sea, and is often depicted as a cheerful fisherman carrying a fishing rod and a big fish. Ebisu is also the patron god of fishermen and tradesmen.
The name Ebisu is derived from the Japanese word “ebisu” which means “prosperous” or “wealthy”. He is one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and is worshipped for his ability to bring good fortune and prosperity. According to Japanese mythology, Ebisu is the son of Izanagi and Izanami, the creators of the world, and is often depicted with his siblings, including the goddess Amaterasu and the god Susanoo.
Ebisu is also associated with the concept of “happiness”. He is known to bring joy and contentment to those who worship him, and is often depicted with a wide smile and a jovial demeanor. According to legend, Ebisu was born without bones, but was able to overcome this disability through his determination and hard work. As a result, he is often associated with the virtues of perseverance and diligence.
Overview
Ebisu is a Japanese god of luck, wealth, and prosperity, particularly where the sea is concerned; he is also the patron god of fishermen. He is one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan, and is often depicted as a fat, bearded, smiling fisherman carrying a rod in one hand and a tai (sea bream) in the other.
The name “Ebisu” is derived from the Japanese word “ebisu,” which means “fisherman” or “prosperity.” He is often associated with the sea and fishing, as well as with trade and commerce. Ebisu is also known for his connection to good fortune and prosperity, and is often depicted holding a fishing rod or a sea bream, both of which are symbols of good luck.
Ebisu is a popular figure in Japanese mythology, and is often depicted in art and sculpture. He is also the subject of many festivals and celebrations throughout Japan, particularly in fishing villages and coastal towns. People often pray to Ebisu for good luck and prosperity, and he is considered to be a benevolent and generous deity who brings good fortune to those who worship him.
Etymology
Ebisu’s name is derived from the Japanese words “ebisu” meaning “fisherman” and “ebisu” meaning “prosperity.” This name is fitting for the god, as he is the patron of fishermen and associated with wealth and good fortune.
In some stories, Ebisu is also referred to as “Yebisu” or “Ebusu.” The name “Yebisu” is believed to have originated from the name of a brewery that was established during the Edo period in Japan. The brewery was named after the god, and the name eventually became associated with the god himself.
Ebisu is often depicted as a cheerful and jovial figure, with a big hat and a fishing rod. He is also commonly portrayed with a large fish, which symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
Attributes
Symbolism
Ebisu, the Japanese god of luck, wealth, and prosperity, is often associated with the sea and fishing. He is also known as the patron god of fishermen. His name comes from the Japanese word “ebisu,” which means “fisherman” or “prosperous.” Ebisu is often depicted carrying a fishing rod and a tai, or sea bream, which is a symbol of good luck.
Ebisu is also associated with the sound “fu,” which is similar to the Japanese word for “luck.” This association has led to the belief that Ebisu can bring good fortune to those who worship him. In Japanese culture, Ebisu is often depicted as a happy, smiling figure, which reflects his association with good luck and prosperity.
Iconography
Ebisu is typically depicted as a chubby, bearded man with a happy expression. He is often shown wearing a tall hat, which is called a kanmuri. The hat is said to represent his position as a god. Ebisu is also often shown carrying a fishing rod and a tai, which are symbols of his association with fishing and good luck.
In some depictions, Ebisu is shown standing on a large fish, which is said to represent his dominance over the sea. He is also sometimes shown with a large bag of rice, which represents his association with wealth and prosperity. Overall, Ebisu’s iconography reflects his role as a god of luck, wealth, and prosperity, particularly in relation to the sea and fishing.
Family Tree
Ancestry
Ebisu is the son of Izanagi and Izanami, two of the most important deities in Japanese mythology. He is one of the seven gods of luck, known as the Shichi-fuku-jin. Ebisu’s siblings include Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun, and Susanoo, the god of storms and the sea.
Descendants
Ebisu is not known to have any direct descendants, but he is often associated with various other gods and goddesses in Japanese mythology. For example, he is sometimes depicted alongside Daikokuten, the god of wealth and prosperity, and Hotei, the god of happiness and good fortune.
Ebisu is also sometimes associated with the goddess Benten, who is the patron of the arts and is often depicted playing a biwa, a traditional Japanese musical instrument. Benten is sometimes referred to as Ebisu’s wife, although this relationship is not well-defined in Japanese mythology.
Overall, Ebisu’s family tree is complex and interwoven with many other deities in Japanese mythology. His position as one of the seven gods of luck and his association with wealth, prosperity, and fishing make him an important figure in Japanese culture and religion.
Mythology
Legends
Ebisu is a Japanese god of luck, wealth, and prosperity. He is also the patron god of fishermen and is one of the Seven Lucky Gods. Ebisu is often depicted as a cheerful fisherman with a big hat, a fishing rod, and a big fish. According to one legend, Ebisu was born without bones, but he was able to walk and move around thanks to the support of his mother, Izanami. Another legend has it that he was rescued by the goddess, Benzaiten, after he was cast into the sea by his father, Izanagi, as a sacrifice to the sea god.
Worship
Ebisu is widely worshipped in Japan as a god of good fortune and prosperity. His followers believe that he brings success in business, wealth, and good health. Many Japanese people visit Ebisu shrines to pray for good fortune and prosperity, especially during the New Year’s season.
Cultural Impact
Ebisu has had a significant cultural impact on Japan, and his image can be found in various forms of Japanese art, including paintings, sculptures, and woodblock prints. In addition, many Japanese companies use Ebisu’s image in their advertising campaigns as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. For example, the beer brand, Yebisu, is named after the god and features his image on its label. The god’s cheerful and friendly image has made him a beloved figure in Japanese culture.
Overall, Ebisu’s mythology, legends, and cultural impact have made him an important figure in Japanese folklore and religion.