HOTEI
In Japan and China, there once lived a joyful monk named Hotei, also known as the Laughing Buddha. Unlike many teachers who gave long speeches or wrote books, Hotei never taught through words. His only teaching was laughter.
After he became enlightened, Hotei simply started laughing. Whenever people asked, “Why are you laughing?” he would laugh even more! He wandered from village to village, carrying nothing with him except his infectious laughter and a large cloth sack.
At first, people thought it was strange. They would ask themselves, “Why are we laughing with him when there is no reason?” Yet, the moment Hotei laughed, others couldn’t stop themselves from joining in. Slowly the entire crowd would burst into laughter—loud, carefree, and without any reason.
What amazed people was how different they felt after laughing with him. Their eyes felt brighter, their hearts lighter, and it seemed as if a heavy burden had been lifted from within. The laughter gave them a sense of joy and freedom that they had never experienced before.
For the next forty-five years of his life, Hotei did only this—he laughed and made others laugh. That was his message, his way of spreading happiness. In Japan, people loved him so much that even today you can find statues of the Laughing Buddha in almost every home.
But Hotei was more than just laughter. His name means “cloth sack,” because he always carried a bag full of gifts, food, and toys for children. He was chubby and smiling, with a big belly, which became a symbol of abundance, kindness, and good luck. Some people even believed he was an incarnation of Maitreya, the future Buddha.
Even today, many people keep statues of the Laughing Buddha in their homes, shops, and offices. They believe his presence spreads happiness, positivity, and prosperity. Rubbing his big belly is thought to bring good luck too!
Hotei’s life teaches us a simple yet powerful lesson: sometimes laughter itself is the best medicine and the greatest wisdom. We don’t always need a reason to laugh. True laughter comes from the heart, and it can heal, refresh, and bring people closer together.
✨ Moral: A cheerful heart spreads light everywhere. Just like Hotei, let your smile and laughter make the world a happier place.
