The Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese Buddhism: Mythology, Characteristics, and Worship

The Seven Lucky Gods hold a special place in Japanese culture and spirituality. Originating from a blend of Buddhist, Shinto, Taoist, and Hindu beliefs, these deities are revered for bringing happiness, prosperity, and longevity. Their worship became popular during the Edo period and remains deeply ingrained in contemporary Japanese society.

Ebisu: The God of Prosperity and Fishing

Ebisu is the only one of the seven gods with purely Japanese origins. He is the god of prosperity in business, particularly for fishermen and merchants. Depicted as a jovial man holding a fishing rod and a fish—usually a sea bream—Ebisu is also revered as the protector of children and households.

Ebisu is especially popular in coastal communities, where fishermen honor him to ensure bountiful catches. On January 10th, the Ebisu Festival (Toka Ebisu) is celebrated nationwide, especially in Osaka, where thousands visit shrines to pray for business success.

Daikokuten: The God of Wealth and Fortune

Daikokuten, often referred to as Daikoku, is the god of wealth, fortune, and kitchens. Originating from Hindu mythology as Mahakala, he was integrated into the Japanese pantheon with benevolent traits. He is usually depicted with a sack full of treasures, a magical mallet, and standing on bags of rice, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.

Daikokuten is also considered the protector of homes, and his image is often placed in kitchens to ensure wealth and food abundance. Shrines dedicated to Daikoku are widespread, and he is frequently paired with Ebisu, forming a powerful duo for attracting fortune.

Bishamonten: The God of War and Warriors

Bishamonten, also known as Bishamon, is the god of war, warriors, and protection against evil forces. He originates from Buddhist tradition, where he is one of the Four Heavenly Kings and the guardian of the north. Bishamon is often depicted in armor, holding a spear in one hand and a pagoda in the other, symbolizing his role as a protector of Buddhism.

Venerated by samurai for strength and victory, Bishamon is also respected by those seeking to overcome obstacles in daily life. His shrines are often located in elevated or strategic spots to oversee and protect villages.

Benzaiten: The Goddess of Music, Eloquence, and Arts

Benzaiten, also known as Benten, is the only female among the seven gods. She is the goddess of music, eloquence, arts, and wisdom. Originating from the Hindu goddess Saraswati, Benten is often depicted holding a biwa (Japanese lute) and is sometimes accompanied by snakes, symbols of protection and power.

Benten is particularly revered by artists, musicians, and students. Shrines dedicated to her are often located near water, reflecting her association with rivers and lakes. The Enoshima Shrine near Kamakura is one of the most famous places where Benten is honored.

Fukurokuju: The God of Longevity and Wisdom

Fukurokuju is the god of longevity, wisdom, and good fortune. He is distinguished by his tall stature, prominent forehead, and long staff adorned with a sacred scroll.

Legends say Fukurokuju can resurrect the dead and is often accompanied by animals symbolizing longevity, such as turtles and cranes. He is especially venerated by those seeking a long and healthy life, and his images are commonly found in elderly people's homes.

Jurōjin: The God of Longevity and Good Health

Jurōjin is another deity of longevity, often depicted with a long staff and a scroll containing the secrets of long life. Unlike Fukurokuju, Jurōjin is portrayed as a cheerful old man accompanied by a deer, a symbol of wisdom and longevity.

Jurōjin is revered for his benevolent qualities and is frequently invoked by those aspiring to live long and healthy lives. Shrines dedicated to him are often found in regions known for their remarkable longevity, such as Okinawa.

Hotei: The God of Contentment and Happiness

Hotei, often called the Laughing Buddha, is the god of contentment, happiness, and abundance. With his large belly, wide smile, and sack filled with treasures, Hotei embodies simple joy and generosity. He is often regarded as an incarnation of Maitreya, the Buddha of the future.

Hotei is venerated for bringing happiness and dispelling worries. He is particularly popular in Zen temples, where his image reminds people to cultivate satisfaction and serenity in their daily lives. Statues of Hotei are often placed at temple entrances or in gardens, where visitors can touch them for blessings of happiness.

The Worship of the Seven Lucky Gods

The worship of the Seven Lucky Gods is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition. Statues and images of these deities are commonly found in homes, businesses, and temples across Japan. Their veneration is particularly prominent during the New Year when people undertake a pilgrimage to visit shrines dedicated to each of them.

This pilgrimage, often conducted in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Kamakura, is seen as a way to purify the soul and secure prosperity, luck, and happiness for the coming year. The shrines dedicated to these deities are often located close to one another, enabling worshippers to complete the pilgrimage within a single day.

Conclusion

The Seven Lucky Gods embody essential aspects of human life, from prosperity and longevity to happiness and wisdom. Their worship, blending elements from various religious and cultural traditions, reflects Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Today, these deities continue to play a central role in Japanese spiritual life, offering comfort and hope in an ever-changing world.