Budai The Laughing Buddha

Budai is traditionally depicted with big belly, bald monk wearing a robe or otherwise carrying prayer beads. He carries his few possessions in a cloth sack, being poor but content. He is often depicted entertaining or being followed by adoring children. His figure appears throughout Chinese culture as a representation of contentment.

According to Chinese history, Budai was an eccentric monk who lived in China. He was known as a man of good and loving character. Budai in folklore is admired for his happiness, plenitude, and wisdom of contentment. One belief popular in folklore maintains that rubbing his belly brings wealth, good luck, and prosperity.

A statue of Maitreya Buddha in Budai form in Taiwan

In Japan, Hotei persists in folklore as one of the Seven Lucky Gods. In popular culture, Benihana's famous figural "tiki mugs" for exotic cocktails, the most common of which depicts Hotei, have become collectible. Overall, for a figure that looks laughing and is considered as a sign of happiness, content, prosperity and generosity. Budai remains a great inspiration to many.

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