Benzaiten is the only female deity among Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods, revered as the goddess of music, eloquence, wisdom, art, and fortune.
Her origins trace back to the Indian goddess Sarasvati, who entered Japan through Buddhist transmission from India to China and eventually Japan.
Because of this, Benzaiten holds a uniquely international and spiritual position among the Seven Lucky Gods.
She is commonly depicted as:
- A graceful woman
- Holding a biwa (Japanese lute)
The biwa symbolizes not only music and the performing arts, but also intellectual expression, speech, and creative wisdom.
This clay figurine portrays Benzaiten with a calm and refined presence, adding elegance and balance to the otherwise male-dominated group of deities.
Benzaiten has long been worshipped by artists, musicians, scholars, and those seeking inspiration and cultural refinement.
