“Learn To Enjoy The Way As Much As You Would Enjoy When You Reach The Destination” - Laughing Buddha
Budai is a semi-historical Chinese monk who is venerated as Maitreya Buddha in Chan Buddhism. He was also introduced into the Japanese Buddhist pantheon. He allegedly lived around the 10th century in the Wuyue kingdom. His name literally means “cloth sack”,and refers to the bag that he is conventionally depicted as carrying as he wanders aimlessly. His jolly nature, humorous personality, and eccentric lifestyle distinguish him from most Buddhist masters or figures. He is almost always shown smiling or laughing, hence his nickname in Chinese, the “Laughing Buddha”. As he is traditionally depicted as fat, he is also referred to as the “Fat Buddha”, especially in the Western world.
The Laughing Buddha is a symbol of happiness, contentment and prosperity. He is called ‘Budai’ in Chinese. … It is believed that if one rubs the belly of Buddha, it brings good luck and wealth. The Laughing Buddha is also seen as one of the seven Japanese Shinto Gods of luck.