Benzaiten is the Japanese Goddess of love, beauty, eloquence and music, as well as a sea Goddess.
Her husband was a wicked dragon whom She reformed, and She is often shown riding one. Dragons and their smaller relatives snakes are sacred to Her and snakes are often Her messengers. She is said to prevent earthquakes and is worshipped on islands, especially the island of Enoshima. Benzaiten is originally of Hindu origin and is associated with Sarasvati, the Indian Goddess of music and wisdom, and is sometimes shown with eight arms. Benzaiten is also linked to Kwannon or Kwan Yin, the sometimes female, sometimes male Bodhisattva of compassion in Buddhism.
Benzaiten is one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune who sails on the Takara-bune, the Treasure Ship. Traditionally, a picture of the Takura-bune placed under the pillow on New Year's Eve will bring a lucky dream.
Benzaiten brings luck and good fortune, persuasion and seduction.
Alternate names: Benten, Benzai-tennyo.