It is known that these deities mostly have their origins as ancient gods of fortune from religions popular in Japan: from Mahayana Buddhism (Benzaiten, Bishamonten, Daikokuten) which came to Japan from China but originated in India, and from Chinese Taoism (Fukurokuju, Hotei, Jurojin) except for one (Ebisu) who has a native Japanese ancestry. Origin and history From left to right: Hotei, Jurōjin, Fukurokuju, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Daikokuten, Ebisu

The worship of this group of gods is also due to the importance of the number seven in Japan, supposedly a signifier of good luck. During the course of their history, the mutual influence between gods has created confusion about which of them was the patron of certain professions. They all began as remote and impersonal gods, but gradually became much closer canonical figures for certain professions and Japanese arts. One of the seven (Jurōjin) is said to be based on a historical figure. In Japanese mythology, the Seven Lucky gods or Seven gods of Fortune ( 七福神, shichifukujin in Japanese) are believed to grant good luck and are often represented in netsuke and in artworks.

Wheel of fortune chinese