Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Benzaiten

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Benzaiten

弁財天 弁才天 弁天
alternative words: Benten
keywords: god
related topics: 7 fortune gods
related web sites: http://www.butsuzou.com/jiten/benzai.html , http://www.chikubushima.jp
explanation: Originate from Hindus' river goddess Sarasvati, she has also become a deity of the music and speech by analogy with the river's current. In Japan, she is represented by a woman carrying a lute and confused with Buddhist goddess, Kisshoten or Kichijoten. Being the unique goddess among 7 fortune gods, Benzaiten is widely venerated in many sanctuaries such as at Miyajima, Chikubushima and Enoshima.


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