Buddhism is most often associated with Japan, China and other countries in that area of the world. But Buddhism had its beginnings in India around the 5th century BC, Buddhism was the result of the challenges to traditional Hinduism, and these challenges culminated with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the son of a wealthy tribal chieftain. He renounced his wealth and became the Buddha, or an awakening. Buddhism arrived in China around 60 AD, but has not become well known and popular until the third century AD

Maitreya, the future Buddha, a bodhisattva, a Sanskrit word that means more or less successful, to be illustrated. A bodhisattva is dedicated to helping others reach enlightenment. Some sects of Buddhism believe that Maitreya will appear when the teachings of Gautama Buddha and is taught and not forgotten. However, the meanings and beliefs about Matireya are many and varied within the Buddhist beliefs.

The laughing Buddha was a Ch'an Buddhist monk who lived in China over 1000 years ago. The Ch'an sect of Buddhism called Zen in Japan. Tradition says that the name of this monk was Hotei, or Pu Tai (meaning cloth sack). Tradition says he was a man of good character and loving, and as such was linked with the traditions of the Buddha Maitreya, the future. Due to its large belly and a smile is also called the Laughing Buddha.

The Laughing Buddha is often seen as carrying a cloth bag that is filled with various things. Money, candy for children, food, even the world's ills. Sometimes it's like sitting, fanning himself with a kind of fan, I wish to call 'fan. It is sometimes with a begging bowl. But if sitting or standing, always bald with a big pot belly and a smile on his face.

Belief in The Laughing Buddha is mostly based on legend. It is said that rubbing her protruding belly brings good luck statues of Maitreya are displayed in Buddhist temples, Chinese and Japanese homes, and elsewhere around the world. The numerous schools of Feng Shui, the art of organizing space to fit the environment to achieve balance and harmony, Maitreya statues used in many ways. In the office or at home, a statue of this wandering monk can bring wealth, peace and joy.

Alan Beggerow is a freelance writer. Visit their website services the Writing, Ghostwriter, at http://www.ghostwriterboo.blogspot.com