Japan Chapter Monthly Letter No. 29 (August 2023)

Description

This issue of the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) Japan Chapter Monthly Letter introduces Shichifukujin, the Seven Deities of Good Fortune. It explores their multicultural origins, including Hindu deities from India (Benzaiten, Bishamonten, and Daikokuten), Chinese Taoist deities (Fukurokuju, Jurōjin, and Hotei), and the sole Japanese deity, Ebisu-sama. The letter notes Ebisu-sama's background as a child with a disability who was loved for his big smile and ultimately became the deity of safe navigation and fishery.