The Seven Gods of Fortune (Japanese: 七福神, Shichi Fukujin), often called the Seven Lucky Gods in English, are a group of deities from Japanese mythology and folklore associated with good fortune. They appear in many forms of popular art, from carved netsuke to festival banners, and are commonly invoked in New Year customs.
Members
- Ebisu — traditionally the patron of fishermen and merchants; he is frequently pictured holding a large cod or sea bass.
- Daikokuten (Daikoku) — a deity of wealth, trade and prosperity; Ebisu and Daikokuten are commonly paired and displayed together at small shops and stalls.
- Bishamonten — a god associated with warriors and protection in battle.
- Benzaiten (Benten-sama) — goddess of knowledge, the arts and beauty, especially music.
- Fukurokuju — linked to happiness, good fortune, and longevity.
- Hotei — the cheerful, rotund figure symbolizing abundance and good health.
- Jurōjin — a spirit representing long life and wisdom.
Historically, most of the Seven came into Japanese belief through cultural exchange with China, and some of those Chinese figures originally trace back to India. Ebisu is generally considered native to Japan. In some regional or artistic variations, the goddess Kichijōten appears alongside the group, occasionally taking the place of Jurōjin.
Iconography and customs
The seven deities are often shown together on the Takarabune (宝船), the "Treasure Ship." According to tradition, the gods ride this vessel into port at New Year to bestow gifts and blessings. Images of the Takarabune are commonly given to children as red envelopes or cards containing small monetary presents during the New Year season. Representations of the Seven Lucky Gods range from formal paintings and woodblock prints to playful modern caricatures and carved amulets used for good luck.