Benzaiten
벤자이텐
JapaneseJapanese Mythology
"Goddess of Music, Art, and Knowledge"
✦ Personality Traits
✦ About
Benzaiten is the goddess of everything that flows: water, words, speech, eloquence, music, and knowledge. Originally the Hindu goddess Saraswati, she was adopted into Japanese Buddhism and Shinto, becoming one of the Seven Lucky Gods.
Often depicted playing a biwa (Japanese lute), Benzaiten is the patron of artists, musicians, writers, and performers. Her shrines are often located on islands or near water, reflecting her origin as a river goddess.
Benzaiten is unique among the Seven Lucky Gods as the only female member. She grants wisdom, artistic talent, and financial fortune, making her popular with everyone from musicians to businesspeople.
✦ Famous Story
Benzaiten once subdued a troublesome dragon by playing such beautiful music that the dragon fell in love with her. Rather than destroy the dragon, she married it and transformed it into a protector of her shrine—showing that art can tame even savage nature.
✦ If You Match
Your features reflect the flowing grace of Benzaiten. There is an artistic, eloquent quality to your presence—the look of one through whom beauty and wisdom flow naturally.
