Van links naar rechts: Hotei, Jurōjin, Fukurokuju, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Daikokuten en Ebisu
Shichi Fukujin (七 福神, seven lucky gods) are seven gods of Japanese mythology. The seven gods of happiness are:
Kichijōten, the goddess of happiness, is sometimes shown together with the seven traditional gods, replacing Jurōjin. Reason for this is that Jurōjin and Kichijōten were originally manifestations of the same Taoist deity, the Southern Star. However, as is often the case in folklore, the Japanese gods sometimes represent different things in different places. The seven gods are often depicted on their ship, Takarabune (宝船), or the Treasure Ship. The tradition states that the seven gods will arrive at New Year and hand out great gifts to people. The children often receive red envelopes containing money. Takarabune and its passengers are often depicted in mythological Japanese art. Origin
The gay gods have a varied origin: Daikokuten, Bishamonten and Benzaiten are native Indian, Hotei, Jurōjin and Fukurokuju are of Chinese origin. Of all Seven Greetings, Ebisu is 'pure' Japanese. Hotei
Hotei is often confused with the Chinese goddess Budai or the famous 'Laughing Buddha' statues. Actually, it is one and the same god. Hotei is recognizable by his wretched clothes and his big belly. Originally, Hotei was a Buddhist monk. He lived in China during the Late Liang Dynasty. Also see
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