Laughing Buddha Research Paper

The Laughing Buddha, also known as Buddha of Happiness is a jolly deity and is the ultimate symbol of joy, well-being and happiness. The Laughing Buddha is based on the life of a Buddhist monk who lived in the 10th century China. His loving ways and cheerful appearance earned him many followers. The Laughing Buddha was a wandering Chinese Zen Buddhist monk called Budai and was always seen carrying a large cloth sack, which contained all his possessions. He was a happy, good natured man who dedicated his life to helping others. Budai, meaning ‘cotton sack’ is the representation of the traveling Buddha, who travels the world gathering everyone’s sadness and problems and placing them in his sack. He is the protector of the poor, weak and children and his sack of everlasting food was handed out to those in need. The sack contains many treasures which he distributes freely and represents wealth and the fulfillment of wishes, wealth and good fortune. Budai became known as the god of contentment and abundance. Statues portray him as a chubby, bald man in monks clothing, with a large exposed belly and either wearing or holding a necklace of beads. This necklace is a “Mala”, a Buddhist string of prayer beads. The beads represent never-ending meditation practice, even when engaged in other daily activities. He is considered a reincarnation of Gautama Buddha and is most welcome and loved everywhere he

The symbol of Laughing Buddha is considered to bring energy, wealth and joyful blessings anywhere it is and will dissolve unfavorable chi energy and at the same time to bring happiness, bliss and