Fukurokuju is Lord of Wealth, Happiness, and Longevity. He is believed to derive from a Chinese Taoist spirit but is now considered the kami of popularity. He is among the Shichi Fukujin, the Seven Spirits of Good Luck. Fukurokuju is often found in the company of Jurojin; the two are happily venerated together. Together, they may double the blessings they bring.
ALSO KNOWN AS:
Fukurokujin
ORIGIN:
Japan
MANIFESTATION:
He is an elderly man with a long, white beard and an unusually shaped bald head with an exceptionally elongated forehead. Once you know what he looks like, he’s hard to miss.
ICONOGRAPHY:
Some images emphasize the phallic appearance of his head.
ATTRIBUTE:
Long staff with a scroll attached
ANIMALS:
Bat, stag, tortoise
BIRD:
Crane
SEE ALSO:
- Jurojin;
- Kami;
- Shichi Fukujin
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.