Hotei is a revered Buddhist figure and god of Japan, known for his association with good luck, prosperity, and happiness. He is one of the Seven Lucky Gods and is often depicted as a cheerful, contented Buddhist monk with a large exposed belly, accompanied by children. Hotei’s origins trace back to ancient China, where he was an eccentric monk known for his jovial nature and generous spirit.
The etymology of Hotei’s name is derived from the Chinese word “Pu-tai,” which means “cloth sack.” This refers to the large sack of treasures that Hotei is often depicted carrying on his back. In Japan, he is also known as “Budai” and is sometimes referred to as the “Laughing Buddha” due to his jovial nature and infectious laughter.
Hotei is not only a god of good fortune and prosperity but is also associated with fertility and abundance. He is often depicted holding a fan, which symbolizes happiness and joy, and a large bowl of food, representing his generous nature and willingness to share his blessings with others. In Japanese mythology, Hotei is revered as a patron saint of happiness and prosperity, and his influence can be seen throughout Japanese culture and society.
Overview
Hotei is a revered figure in Japanese Buddhism and one of the Seven Lucky Gods. He is known as the patron saint of happiness and prosperity and is often depicted with a treasure bag full of riches and blessings. Hotei is a bodhisattva, which means he is on the path to enlightenment and is dedicated to helping others achieve it as well.
Hotei is known for his benevolent nature and his love for children. He has the ability to bring good fortune to those in need and is often called upon for his blessings. The treasure bag he carries is said to contain whatever is needed to bring happiness and prosperity to those who seek it.
Hotei is often depicted as a large, jovial man with a big belly and a smiling face. He is sometimes called the “Laughing Buddha” because of his cheerful demeanor. He is a popular figure in Japanese culture and is often seen in homes and businesses as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
Etymology
Hotei is a Japanese god and bodhisattva, revered as one of the Seven Lucky Gods. The name “Hotei” is derived from the Chinese word “Pu-tai,” which means “cloth sack.” This name refers to Hotei’s appearance as a jovial, rotund monk carrying a large sack over his shoulder.
Another name for Hotei is “Laughing Buddha,” which reflects his cheerful demeanor and association with good fortune and happiness. In Japanese culture, Hotei is often depicted with a broad smile, holding a fan or a cloth bag filled with treasures.
Hotei’s origins can be traced back to ancient China, where he was known as Budai, a legendary monk who lived during the Tang dynasty. According to legend, Budai was a wandering monk who traveled the countryside, giving gifts to the poor and spreading joy wherever he went. Over time, Budai became associated with good luck and prosperity, and his image was adopted by Buddhists in Japan and other parts of Asia.
Overall, Hotei’s name and appearance reflect his role as a bringer of good fortune and happiness, and his popularity has made him one of the most beloved and recognizable figures in Japanese mythology.
Attributes
Hotei is often depicted as a jolly, smiling figure with a large belly and a bald head. He is often shown carrying a large cloth bag, which is said to contain gifts and blessings for those who are worthy. Hotei is also known for his love of children and is often depicted playing with them or holding them on his lap.
Iconography
Hotei’s iconography is quite distinctive, with his large belly and bald head being the most recognizable features. He is often shown wearing a robe and carrying a large cloth bag, which is sometimes depicted as being full of treasures. Hotei is also often shown with a fan or a staff, which he uses to bring good luck and prosperity to those around him.
Symbolism
Hotei is a symbol of good luck, fortune, and happiness. His large belly is said to represent abundance and prosperity, while his bald head is a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment. Hotei’s love of children is also symbolic of his desire to bring joy and happiness to those around him.
In Japanese folklore, Hotei is one of the Seven Lucky Gods, who are believed to bestow good fortune and blessings upon those who honor them. He is also associated with the Buddhist concept of the bodhisattva, a figure who has achieved enlightenment but chooses to remain on Earth to help others achieve the same goal.
Overall, Hotei is a beloved figure in Japanese culture, and his image can be found in homes, businesses, and temples throughout the country.
Family Tree
Parentage
Hotei’s parentage is not entirely clear, as different sources provide different information. According to some accounts, he is the son of the god of the sky and the goddess of the earth. Other sources suggest that he is the son of a wealthy merchant. Regardless of his parentage, Hotei is considered to be a divine being in Japanese folklore.
Siblings
Hotei is often depicted as one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology, along with Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamon, Fukurokuju, Jurojin, and Benzaiten. However, it is not clear if he has any siblings in the traditional sense. In some stories, he is said to have a brother named Shokichi, who is also a god of good fortune. However, this relationship is not consistent across all accounts of Hotei’s life and mythology.
Mythology
Legends
Hotei is a well-known deity in Japanese culture, and he is often depicted as a plump, jolly monk with a big belly and a cheerful disposition. According to legend, Hotei was once a real-life person, a Chinese monk named Budai who lived in the 10th century. He was known for his generosity and kind nature, and he would often give away his possessions to those in need. He is said to have carried a large sack with him, from which he would pull out gifts for children and the poor.
In Japan, Hotei is considered one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and he is associated with good luck, happiness, and prosperity. He is often depicted holding a fan, which is said to bring good fortune, and he is sometimes shown with a small child on his back, symbolizing his caring nature.
Cultural Significance
Hotei plays an important role in Japanese culture, and he is often seen as a symbol of good luck and happiness. He is a popular figure in Japanese art and literature, and he is often depicted in paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Many Japanese people keep a statue of Hotei in their homes or businesses, believing that he will bring them good fortune and prosperity.
In addition to his association with good luck, Hotei is also seen as a symbol of generosity and kindness. His legend has inspired many people to be more giving and compassionate, and his message of love and goodwill is still relevant today. Overall, Hotei is an important figure in Japanese mythology, and his legacy continues to inspire and uplift people around the world.