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Maitreya, The Buddha To Be Jun 14, 2008
By J. H. Minde
"Everything I need is right here"
Hotei (as he is called in Japan), like the Buddha Shakyamuni, was an historical personage. A Chinese Ch'an (Zen) Master named Pu-Ta'i who lived about a thousand years ago, Hotei was an itinerant monk who traveled from village to village with his few belongings in a burlap sack slung over his shoulder. He was reputed to be a great teacher who responded to almost all inquiries about the nature of existence with good-natured belly laughter.
This jolly, kindhearted man soon attained quite a reputation. His visits were eagerly awaited, particularly by children, to whom he customarily freely distributed toys and sweetmeats. On his deathbed he admitted that he was in truth the Buddha of the future, Maitreya, who would return someday to end all human suffering.
Hotei is almost always shown as fat, symbolic of comfort and ease, smiling broadly, and carrying a sack stuffed with odd trinkets. He is often holding a mala (rosary) and a bell (to ring in the Dharma). Frequently, happy children are seen swarming around and all over him.
As an itinerant monk, he is analogous to St. Christopher, who protects travelers, and his love of children and gift-giving makes him analogous as well to St. Nicholas; indeed, he is often referred to as "the Chinese Santa Claus." In his aspect as a bringer of harmony, he fulfills the role of savior.
All Chinese Buddhist temples contain an image of Hotei.
Many people own at least one Hotei as a decoration, simply for the good nature he exudes. Hotei figurines come in all shapes, sizes and substances, and jade figurines, like this one, are most attractive. So if you've never met Hotei, make yourself acquainted with him. His presence in your home is said to be a harbinger of comfort, joy, and the best of good fortune.
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