Benzaiten-Japanese Saraswati

Benzaiten is a Japanese Buddhist goddess, who originated from the Hindu goddess Saraswati. Worship of Benzaiten arrived in Japan during the 6th through 8th centuries, mainly via the Chinese translations of the Sutra of Golden Light, which has a section devoted to her.

She is also mentioned in the Lotus Sutra and often depicted holding a biwa, a traditional Japanese lute, just as Saraswati holds a veena. Benzaiten is a syncretic entity with both a Buddhist and a Shinto side.

Benzaiten is the Japanese Goddess of love, beauty, eloquence and music, as well as a sea Goddess. Her husband was a wicked dragon whom She reformed, and She is often shown riding one. Dragons and their smaller relatives snakes are sacred to Her and snakes are often Her messengers.

She is said to prevent earthquakes and is worshipped on islands, especially the island of #Enoshima. Benzaiten is originally of Hindu origin and is associated with Sarasvati, the Indian Goddess of music and wisdom, and is sometimes shown with eight arms.

Benzaiten is also linked to Kwannon or Kwan Yin, the sometimes female, sometimes male Bodhisattva of compassion in Buddhism.

Benzaiten is one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune who sails on the Takara-bune, the Treasure Ship.

Traditionally, a picture of the Takura-bune placed under the pillow on New Year's Eve will bring a lucky dream.

Benzaiten brings luck and good fortune, persuasion and seduction.