Who is the round bellied man so many non-Buddhists and Buddhists like to have statues of?
Who is Hotei?
His name is Hotei or some people refer to him as “the Laughing Buddha” because he is always portrayed as smiling or laughing. His image began in Japan and it is said Hotei was an actual man named Budaishi who was believed to be an incarnation of Maitreya. Hotei is the God of Contentment and Happiness. He is dressed in traditional Buddhist monk robes and carries with him a large cloth sack that is never empty. He pulls things from his cloth sack to feed needy children and their families. In modern times, he is often seen as a protector of people who run restaurants and bars so this is why when you go into a Chinese restaurant in America there may be a statue of Hotei somewhere near the cash register. It is also believed by many people that if you rub the belly of a Hotei statue, you will be granted the wish of good luck and good fortune.
Why is Hotei Smiling?
Why is this man so round and always happy? He doesn’t let anything bother him. He is forgiving; he gives without expectation of anything but a thank you. He is sometimes portrayed as being surrounded by laughing, playing children. Have you ever gone to a playground and just watched the kids who act like they don’t have a care in the world? You may end up like Hotei: smiling, laughing filled with the happiness that the children are feeling.
Be Like Hotei
In the winter months of the year, when there is a spirit of giving in the air, is when Buddhists can most be like Hotei. There are plenty of people out there less fortunate than you. Donate some toys to Toys for Tots so a child will be happy on Christmas morning with your present under their tree. Donate food or cash to a local organization that distributes food to families who can’t afford to put dinner on the table tonight but may eat tomorrow because of your big heart like Hotei’s. Don’t just do it at this time a year. Do it several times throughout the year. You will obtain merits for this and also one step closer to enlightenment!
One belief, popular in folklore but not part of Buddhist doctrine, maintains that rubbing his belly brings wealth, good luck, and prosperity.
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