Now Viewing: seven_lucky_godsTag type: Character The Seven Gods of Fortune (七福神 Shichi Fukujin), commonly referred to in English as the Seven Lucky Gods, refer to the seven gods of good fortune in Japanese mythology and folklore. They are often the subject of netsuke carvings and other representations. Each has a traditional attribute: Hotei, the fat and happy god of abundance and good health Juroujin, god of longevity Fukurokuju, god of happiness, wealth and longevity Bishamonten, god of warriors Benzaiten (Benten-sama), goddess of knowledge, art and beauty, especially music Daikokuten (Daikoku), god of wealth, commerce and trade. Ebisu and Daikoku are often paired and represented as carvings or masks on the walls of small retail shops Ebisu, god of fishers or merchants, often depicted carrying a sea bream Many figures in Japanese myth were transmitted from China (some having entered China from India), including all of the Seven Lucky Gods except Ebisu. Another god, Kichijōten, goddess of happiness, is sometimes found depicted along with the seven traditional gods, replacing Jurōjin, the reasoning being that Jurōjin and Fukurokuju were originally manifestations of the same Taoist deity, the Southern Star. However, as is often the case in folklore, Japanese gods sometimes represent different things in different places. The seven gods are often depicted on their ship, the Takarabune (宝船), or "Treasure Ship." The tradition holds that the seven gods will arrive in town on the New Year and distribute fantastic gifts to worthy people. Children often receive red envelopes emblazoned with the Takarabune which contain gifts of money around the New Year. The Takarabune and its passengers are often depicted in art in varied locations, from the walls of museums to cuddly caricatures. Other Wiki Information Last updated: 04/09/11 3:47 PM by jedi1357 This entry is not locked and you can edit it as you see fit. |
     
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